Bahrain youth handball heroes return

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s youth men’s national team returned home to a warm welcome following their impressive run at the 11th Asian Men’s Youth Handball Championship in Amman, Jordan.

The Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) received the squad on their arrival in the kingdom after the youngsters claimed silver and booked their place at next year’s IHF Men’s Youth Handball World Championship.

Their campaign ended with a 28-24 defeat to Gulf rivals Qatar in the title clash at Princess Sumaya Hall.

The runners-up finish was the kingdom’s first in the history of the Asian Handball Federation’s under-19 competition, adding to titles won in 2016 and 2018 and a bronze medal in 2010.

Coached by Egyptian tactician Mohamed Abdelrahman Soliman, the Bahrainis had gone unbeaten throughout the tournament until the final.

Their quarter-final victory over Saudi Arabia secured qualification for the 2027 youth worlds, before they overcame Iran in the semi-finals to set up the meeting with Qatar.

Two players also returned with individual honours. Ahmed Abdulla was named the tournament’s best centre back, while Mohammed Marzooq received the best left wing award.

Next year’s global event, scheduled for July 29 to August 9, will mark the nationals’ seventh appearance overall and fifth in succession.