Bahrain Sweep Palestine in Confident Cup Opener

Nationals make dominant start in Arab Challenge Cup in Jordan

Bahrain’s senior men’s volleyball team began their Arab Challenge Cup campaign yesterday with a clean 3–0 win over Palestine at Princess Saeeda Hall in Amman, delivering a disciplined and technically consistent performance that set the tone for the tournament ahead.

Head coach Arnaud Josserand fielded the core group that earned bronze at the Islamic Solidarity Games earlier this month, and the stability within the squad was evident from the opening points. Bahrain controlled the first set through organized side-out play and steady distribution from setter Hani Alawi, closing the frame 25–22 after holding off a late Palestinian surge.

The second set showed Bahrain’s increasing command of the match. Stronger service pressure from Hassan Al Warqaa and Ayman Harwana limited Palestine’s attacking rhythm and allowed the Bahraini block, led by Mahmoud Abdulwahed and Abbas Al Khabbaz, to read the play with growing ease. Bahrain took the set 25–16.

The third set was Bahrain’s most complete performance of the evening. With reception anchored by Mahmood Alafyah and Hussain Mansoor, the team maintained a high tempo in transition and tightened their defensive structure. Captain Naser Anan provided leadership and consistency in attack, while Ali Ebrahim and Sayed Hashim Issa added reliable scoring from the wings. Bahrain closed the match with a dominant 25–9 finish.

The win followed Palestine’s 3–0 loss to Egypt in their opener, and Bahrain took full advantage by playing with clarity and minimizing errors throughout the match.

With opening-day nerves now settled, Bahrain shift their focus to a far sterner test when they play Egypt tomorrow at 7pm. A positive result there would place Josserand’s side among the early pacesetters in Amman and significantly reinforce their bid to contend for the first Arab Challenge Cup crown.

Their campaign has started with confidence, and on yesterday’s evidence, the national team appear ready to chase another chapter in one of the most successful periods in their recent history.