Handball League: Golden square semi-finals continue

TDT | Manama

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Game 2 of the Khalid bin Hamad Bahrain Handball League semi-finals takes place today at Khalifa Sports City Arena in Isa Town. Al Ahli and Barbar are both aiming to secure a place in the final following their opening wins on Tuesday night.

The evening begins at 5:30pm, when Al Ahli face Al Shabab. Ahli are looking to close out the series after edging Game 1 33–31 in a tightly contested encounter. The match swung back and forth throughout, with Ali Eid breaking the early deadlock through a sharp nine-metre strike as Ahli moved ahead to lead 18–15 at half-time.

Shabab responded strongly after the restart. Jassim Khamis levelled the scores at 21–21, before Ahmed Kadhem briefly put them in front from the free-throw line. However, Ahli regained control at the crucial moments, with Qassim Qambar and Sayed Ahmed Faiq striking in quick succession. Ali Eid then sealed the win late with a longrange effort that extended the lead to 33–30, ending Shabab’s comeback hopes.

Later, at 7:30pm, Barbar take on reigning champions Al Najma, chasing a place in the final after winning the penalty shootout 35–32 following a 31–31 draw in regulation time.

Najma looked set to take Game 1 when Komail Mahfoudh scored from six metres with just 12 seconds remaining. But Barbar struck back immediately, as Maitham Mahdi produced a last-buzzer equaliser from the left wing to force penalties.

In the shootout, Barbar held their nerve. Ali Ahmed converted the decisive attempt, while Najma were left to rue missed chances after Ahmed Fadhel struck the woodwork and Mohammed Habib Ahmed hit the post.

If Al Shabab or Al Najma respond, the series will head to a deciding Game 3 on Saturday at the same venue.