Bahrain open Asian Championship with emphatic win

Robert Hedin’s men asserted control from the opening minutes, racing into an early lead through Salman Al Showaikh, who was instrumental throughout the contest. The Bahrainis’ defensive discipline and quick transitions troubled the Jordanians, allowing them to steadily build an advantage and go into the break with a commanding 17-10 lead. 

Jordan attempted to respond early in the second half, but Bahrain quickly regained momentum. Al Showaikh continued to lead the attack, while Mohammed Ahmed Habib, Mohamed Nasser, Ali Alasheer, and Qasim Qambar all contributed crucial goals as Bahrain stretched their lead further. The Bahrainis remained composed in the final stages, efficiently closing out the match to secure an 11-goal victory and underline their credentials as one of the tournament favourites.

Al Showaikh was deservedly named Man of the Match after delivering a standout performance, scoring six goals and orchestrating Bahrain’s offensive play with authority and composure. Following the match, Bahrain international Mohammed Habib highlighted the importance of the opening win. “We achieved the most important thing at the start of the tournament,” he said. “Opening matches are always difficult, but we were ready for the challenge and managed to overcome a match that was not easy at all.”

He added: “Every game in this championship is tough. This win gives us strong motivation for what’s coming. We didn’t come here just to participate, we are taking it step by step and treating every match on its own.”

Bahrain return to action tomorrow when they face China at 6pm, before concluding the preliminary round against Iraq on Tuesday at 4pm. The top two teams from each group will advance to the main round as the race for World Championship qualification intensifies.