Kuwait seals main-round qualification at Asian Junior Handball Championship

The junior team celebrates after sealing main round qualification.

BEIJING, July 21: Kuwait secured qualification for the main round of the 19th Asian Men's Youth Handball Championship in China after a thrilling 30-29 victory over Qatar in the sixth round of the preliminary stage.

The Blues produced a determined display, showing strong fighting spirit and concentration throughout the match before holding on for a narrow one-goal win that confirmed their progress to the next phase of the competition.

Kuwait will complete its preliminary-round schedule today when it faces the United Arab Emirates in the seventh and final round, looking to claim another victory and carry positive momentum into the main round.

The closing round of the preliminary stage also features Saudi Arabia against Hong Kong, Qatar facing India, Oman meeting Chinese Taipei, Bahrain taking on China, and South Korea playing Japan.

Kuwait Handball Association secretary general Qaed Al-Adwani praised the team's impressive showing at the tournament, stressing that the players' success reflects their ability to compete strongly and deliver positive results on the continental stage.

Al-Adwani highlighted the squad's technical ability and mental strength, adding that the federation, alongside the national teams' coaching staff, remains committed to providing the best possible preparation for international competitions and maintaining the strong reputation of Kuwaiti handball.

He said the ultimate ambition is to challenge for continental honours, while urging the players to continue their strong performances in the main round and remain focused on their goal of competing for the championship title.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff