Bahrain storm into beach handball semi-finals

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s men’s beach handball team powered into the semi-finals of the Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, after a 2–0 (16–6, 16–10) win over Hong Kong in their final Group A match yesterday.

The result secured second place in the group for Bahrain with eight points, behind table-toppers Iran on 10 points. Iran maintained their perfect record by defeating China in their final group fixture.

Bahrain began their campaign strongly, registering three consecutive wins against China, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka before losing to an unbeaten Iranian side. They responded in style against Hong Kong, delivering a clinical performance under coach Hussain Al Qaidoom to reach the last four.

From the outset, the nationals controlled the contest. Bilal Askani opened the scoring with a sharp spin finish, setting the tone for a dominant first period. Adam Alnasheet and Komail Mahfoodh quickly added to the pressure, with Alnasheet particularly effective as Bahrain surged to a decisive 16–6 lead.

The second period followed a similar pattern. Askani struck early again, while Mahdi Ali and Mahfoodh kept Hong Kong on the back foot through quick transitions, penalties, and efficient finishing. Bahrain maintained their intensity throughout, with Askani, Mahfoodh, and Alnasheet consistently breaching the defence to close out a controlled 16–10 win.

All three key attackers finished with eight goals each, highlighting Bahrain’s balanced offensive threat. Ali Alhayki and Mahdi Ali added two goals apiece as the team rounded off a complete and disciplined performance.

Speaking after the match, Ali Mahdi said Bahrain had achieved their initial target despite the earlier setback against Iran.

“It is well known that when Bahrain’s handball teams compete, we don’t just participate, we aim to win,” he said. “Our first objective was to reach the semi-finals and we have achieved that. Now we will prepare properly for what comes next.”

The Kingdom’s representatives will now face Qatar in the semi-finals under the crossover format between the two groups.

The bronze and gold medal matches have been rescheduled, with the bronze medal game set for 3pm Bahrain time tomorrow and the gold medal match taking place at 4pm on Thursday.