Bahrain’s Warriors Ready For Asian Battle

Bahrain’s senior men’s handball team have concluded their preparatory stint at the Yellow Cup in Switzerland and now shift their focus to the 22nd Asian Men’s Handball Championship, which begins on Thursday in Kuwait City. The continental tournament will also serve as the Asian qualifier for the 2027 IHF Men’s World Championship in Germany, placing extra emphasis on a strong start for Robert Hedin’s squad.

The Bahrainis wrapped up the Yellow Cup with a close 31-33 defeat to Ukraine, finishing fourth overall. Trailing 17-18 at halftime, Bahrain showed greater tenacity in the second half, clawing back from a four-goal deficit to within one goal late in the match, but Ukraine ultimately held on for the victory. While the result may have disappointed, the performance offered encouraging signs that Bahrain can compete under pressure. Hosts Switzerland claimed the title for the tenth time after a 29-all draw with North Macedonia, who finished as runners-up. Despite not recording a win, none of Bahrain’s three losses exceeded a four-goal margin, which is a small but significant indicator of their competitive level against strong European opposition.

Following their return to Bahrain yesterday, the national team will have a short recovery period before departing for Kuwait City on Wednesday to begin their continental campaign, ensuring players are rested and ready for the intense schedule ahead.

Bahrain will compete in Group B alongside Jordan, China, and Iraq. They open their campaign against Jordan at 4pm on Friday, face China on Sunday at 6pm, and conclude the preliminary round against Iraq next Tuesday at 4pm, all times local to Bahrain. A strong start in the group will be key, as every point could prove decisive in the race for an Asian qualifying spot for the World Championship.

The squad, led by captain Hussain Al Sayyad, also includes: Hassan Al Samaheeji, Mohammed Abdulhussain, Mohammed Habib Ahmed, Mohammed Habib Nasser, Hussain Mahfoudh, Jaffar Abdulshaheed, Mohammed Hameed, Hesham Ahmed, Salman Al Showaikh, Qassim Qamber, Ahmed Redha, Sayed Ali Basem, Hassan Madan, Ahmed Almaqabi, Ali Mahmood, Jassim Khamis, Ali Redha, and Ali Alasheeri.  

Robert Hedin’s men, gold medal winners at last year’s sixth Islamic Solidarity Games, will be aiming for a strong start in the Kuwaiti capital. Observers will be watching to see if the lessons learned in Switzerland translate into sharper performances as the “Warriors” compete for one of the Asian qualifying spots for the 2027 World Championship.