Bahrain reach Asian quarter-finals

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain's junior national handball team secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 19th Asian Men's Junior Handball Championship with a convincing 35-27 victory over hosts China yesterday, finishing second in Group A.

Bahrain produced another commanding display, taking control of the contest from the opening whistle through disciplined defending and clinical finishing. The team opened up an 18-12 lead at half-time before maintaining its advantage throughout the second half to complete an eight-goal victory.

The win was Bahrain's fourth of the preliminary round, following earlier victories over Chinese Taipei, Oman and Hong Kong, while their only defeat came against group winners Saudi Arabia. Bahrain finished the group stage with eight points to book their place in the knockout rounds.

Abudhir Al Yateem was named the match's Most Valuable Player after an outstanding all-round performance, contributing key goals and creating numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Bahrain will now face Iran in the quarter-finals on Friday as they continue their bid for a place among Asia's top junior handball nations.

The semi-finals will be held on Saturday, setting the match-ups for the gold and bronze medal games on Monday, the tournament's concluding day. Classification matches for the remaining teams will also be played across the final two days of the competition.

The Asian championship also serves as the continental qualifier for the 26th IHF Men's U21 Handball World Championship, scheduled to take place in North Macedonia from June 23 to July 4 next year. The four semi-finalists will secure qualification for the global event, leaving Bahrain one victory away from booking their place on the world stage.