Action shot of a Kuwaiti handball player in mid-air, preparing to throw the ball, while teammates and opponents watch from behind on an indoor court.

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 10: Kuwait returns today from its European training camp in Slovenia and Croatia, as it gears up for the 22nd Asian Men’s Handball Championship – World Cup 2027 qualifiers, set to be hosted in Kuwait at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Complex from January 15 to 29.

The tournament draw placed Kuwait in Group C alongside the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, and India. Group A features Oman, Qatar, and South Korea, Group B includes Bahrain, Jordan, China, and Iraq, while Group D consists of Japan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

During the European camp, Kuwait played three friendly matches against Algeria, Slovenia, and Georgia, and also held a joint training session with Kosovo.

Head coach Aron Kristjansson and his assistant Heni focused on finalizing the team’s offensive and defensive strategies, as well as selecting the starting lineup for the Asian Championship, where Kuwait aims to compete strongly for the title.

Meanwhile, the Australian team arrived in Kuwait two days ago for a training camp at the Arena Mall Sports Complex in Sabah Al-Ahmad. During its stay, Australia will play friendly matches against Burgan Club and Sweden’s Malmo team, which is also training at the venue. Australia will compete in Group D alongside Japan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia.

Kuwait Handball Federation Treasurer Khaled Taleb confirmed that the European camp achieved its objectives, successfully implementing the coaching staff’s plans. He also called on Kuwaiti fans to cheer on the team as it aims for success in this major continental tournament.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff