Kuwait opens Asian Junior Handball Championship with a convincing win

Kuwait attacker makes a goal attempt against Syria.

AMMAN, Aug 20: Kuwait began its campaign at the 11th Asian Junior Handball Championship in impressive fashion, cruising to a 29-19 victory over Syria in its opening preliminary-round match in Jordan.

The Blues controlled the game and delivered a particularly strong second-half display, executing their offensive and defensive strategies effectively to underline their readiness for a serious challenge in the tournament.

Kuwait will look to build on the winning start when it faces Qatar today at 2 p.m. in its second preliminary-round fixture. Another victory would put the team in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.

Elsewhere, India faces South Korea, Iran meets Saudi Arabia, and hosts Jordan takes on Bahrain. All participating teams will have a rest day on Saturday before action resumes.

The top four teams, those reaching the semifinals, will earn qualification for the next World Championship, adding further importance to the race for the final four places.

Kuwait entered the tournament following an intensive preparation program that included a European camp in Slovenia and Croatia, where the squad played several friendlies. The team then held a final training camp in Kuwait, featuring two warm-up matches against Bahrain.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff