Bahrain maintain perfect record against Sri Lanka

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain extended their unbeaten run in the men’s beach handball tournament at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, with a 2–0 victory over Sri Lanka yesterday.

The nationals followed up their dramatic comeback win over the Philippines with a far more controlled display, taking the match in straight sets, 18–14, 10–6, at the Tianya Haijiao Venue Cluster.

With three wins from three, coach AlQaidoom’s side sit firmly on top of the group and continue to build momentum ahead of a crucial clash with an equally unbeaten Iranian side.

This time, Bahrain looked composed from the first whistle, avoiding the sluggish start that troubled them in their previous outing. They settled quickly into rhythm in the opening set, with balanced scoring across the squad allowing them to gradually pull clear.

Ali Alhayki and Adam Alnasheet led the charge in attack, while Mahdi Ali once again provided a reliable scoring outlet. Bahrain maintained control in the closing stages to seal the first set 18–14.

The second set saw an even more disciplined performance. Bahrain tightened up defensively, limiting Sri Lanka’s opportunities while making the most of key chances. Abdulla Alzaimoor contributed from goal, and the team’s organisation proved decisive as they closed out the set 10–6, sealing the match without the need for a shoot-out.

Alnasheet finished as Bahrain’s top scorer with eight points, while Alhayki added six. Bilal Askani contributed four, with Abdulla Alzaimoor and Komail Ghulum adding two points each. For Sri Lanka, Priyantha Chandradasa led with six points, while Anil Hettigoda and Muhammathu Ammar scored four apiece.

Reflecting on the result, Komail Fuad highlighted the team’s resilience: “We’re grateful to come away with a third straight win. It wasn’t easy, but we stayed composed and found solutions at the right moments.”

Ali Almawlani struck a confident tone looking ahead: “We know there’s still more to come from us. We’re called the Warriors for a reason, and as long as we’re in this tournament, we believe we can go all the way.”

Bahrain will now enjoy a rest day before facing Iran in a highly anticipated Group A showdown tomorrow at 11am (Bahrain time). Iran, who have also opened with two wins, will first take on Hong Kong.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on Tuesday, with the medal matches set for Thursday.