Players celebrate their opening win over Morocco.

KUWAIT CITY, May 6: The 10th Arab Handball Cup, currently underway in Kuwait and running through the 11th of this month, opened to widespread praise from Arab federation heads and officials from the Asian Handball Federation. All commended the Supreme Organizing Committee and tournament working groups for their professionalism, reaffirming Kuwait's reputation and experience in hosting major sporting events. The host nation got off to a winning start in the group stage, defeating Morocco 39-29 in their opening match. Kuwaiti goalkeeper Hassan Safar was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

In other first-round results, Bahrain edged Iraq 28-26, while Qatar defeated Saudi Arabia 31-22.

Bader Al-Dhiyab, Vice President of the International Handball Federation, applauded Kuwait’s long-standing excellence in organizing international tournaments. He expressed hope for a high level of play from all participating teams, who represent both Asia and Africa.

“The Asian Handball Federation fully supports Kuwait in hosting this Arab Championship,” Al-Dhiyab said, voicing confidence in Kuwait’s youth to ensure the tournament’s success.

Dr. Ahmed Al-Obaidi, President of the Iraqi Handball Federation, said he was delighted to participate, especially since the event is being held in Kuwait, widely recognized for its top-tier event organization. He expressed hope for competitive matches that reflect the strength and unity of the Arab world.

Bahrain Handball Federation President Ali Issa thanked the Kuwait Handball Federation for its excellent hosting efforts. “This level of organization is no surprise from the people of Kuwait,” Issa remarked. He added that Bahrain confirmed participation as soon as Kuwait was announced as host.

Qatar Handball Federation President Ahmed Al-Shaabi described the tournament as a “valuable Arab gathering,” crediting Kuwait’s hosting for the event’s significance.

“Qatar’s participation aims to contribute to the championship’s success,” Al-Shaabi said, thanking both the Arab and Kuwaiti Handball Federations for reviving the tournament after years of absence.

The championship officially opened two days ago at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Complex, with nine Arab teams participating.

Held under the patronage of the Minister of Information, Culture, and State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, the opening ceremony featured laser displays by local youth groups and a welcome performance by artist Hamoud Al-Khadher.

Bashar Abdullah, Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Sports and representative of the tournament sponsor, emphasized the importance of bringing the Arab Championship back to Kuwait after a long hiatus.

“This event marks a milestone for Arab handball,” he said, wishing the teams success in presenting competitive, high-level matches. He also praised the organizing committee for the event’s excellent coordination, which aligns with the Authority’s strategy to host major sports events in Kuwait.

President of the Saudi Handball Federation, Fadel Al-Nemer, extended his gratitude to Kuwait’s political leadership, led by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, for hosting the tournament, a return to Kuwait 46 years after it first hosted the event.

He Nemer commended Minister Al-Mutairi’s support and the Kuwait Handball Federation’s professional execution. He expressed joy at the tournament coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Arab Handball Federation’s founding in 1975.

He also reaffirmed the Federation’s continued mission to organize tournaments for all categories to promote and develop the sport across the Arab world.

Three decisive group stage matches are scheduled for today:

3:00 pm: Saudi Arabia vs. Tunisia

5:00 pm: Bahrain vs. Egypt

7:00 pm: Kuwait vs. UAE — a key match for the hosts