Bahrain Storms Into Handball Semis

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s men’s handball team bounced back in emphatic fashion yesterday, claiming a 33–21 win over Iraq at the Olympic Complex’s Green Hall to secure a place in the semi-finals of the sixth Islamic Solidarity Games. After their opening loss to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain showed no signs of rust, delivering a disciplined and high-tempo performance from the first whistle.

The match started evenly, with Iraq opening the scoring through Ali Haddawee before Jaffar Farsan responded for Bahrain. The teams traded goals in the early minutes, but Salman Alshowaikh quickly took command for the Bahrainis, scoring four of the side’s first seven goals. Ahmed Kadhem and Mohamed Rabia added precision finishing from the 6m line, while Hasan Ali and Hasan Alsamahiji contributed key strikes to maintain a steady lead.

By halftime, Bahrain had established a comfortable 17–12 advantage, built on fast-break efficiency and patient set-play execution. Alshowaikh’s finishing from the wing, combined with Kadhem’s clinical penalties, allowed Bahrain to control the pace and momentum. Goalkeeper contributions were critical as well, with the Bahrainis converting turnovers into points while limiting Iraq’s scoring opportunities.

The second half saw Bahrain extend their lead decisively. Mohamed Mohamed turned in a dominant display, scoring four times to break the game open, while Jasim Khamis and Abdulla Abdulkarim added timely goals to keep Iraq at bay. Despite a late flurry from Iraq’s Baderaldeen Naser and Al-tameemi duo, Bahrain’s composure never wavered, finishing 33–21 in a dominant performance.

Alshowaikh topped the scoring with eight goals, Kadhem added seven, and Mohamed Rabia contributed three. Hasan Ali and Hasan Alsamahiji chipped in with crucial support, while the team’s defensive structure and fast-break execution made the difference.

With this win, Bahrain set up a semi-final match against Qatar today at 3:30 PM, aiming to maintain momentum and book a spot in the final. In the other semi-final, hosts Saudi Arabia face the UAE at 6:15 PM. The women’s bronze medal match is scheduled for tomorrow at 12 PM, followed by the men’s at 2:45 PM. Friday will feature the gold medal finals, with the women’s at 1:30 PM and the men’s at 4 PM. All matches will be held at the Olympic Complex’s Green Hall.