14/06/2026
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14/06/2026
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KUWAIT CITY, June 14: Kuwait’s national youth handball team is continuing its preparations in Slovenia and Croatia with a two-week training camp as part of its build-up to the Asian U-19 Championship, set to take place in China from July 15 to 27. The tournament also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 World Championship in North Macedonia, with the top four teams earning qualification.
The delegation includes 24 players alongside the administrative and technical staff, while four players were unable to join due to their commitments with high school examinations.
Faisal Siwan, Director of National Teams at the Kuwait Handball Federation, confirmed that the “Blue” youth team will play five friendly matches during the European camp against Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The fixtures form part of a structured preparation plan designed by the technical and administrative staff in coordination with the federation’s board to ensure optimal readiness ahead of the Asian tournament.
Siwan noted that the current preparation period is relatively short, lasting just 16 days outside domestic training, adding that recent interruptions in sporting activity in Kuwait have had an impact on overall team readiness.
He emphasized that the players carry full responsibility and are determined to represent Kuwait in the best possible way, highlighting the need for maximum effort to compete at a high level in the continental championship. Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence in the squad’s ability and said the team aims to secure a spot at the World Championship.
The draw for the Asian Championship placed Kuwait in Group B alongside Iran, India, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, and the UAE. Kuwait will open its campaign against Iran on July 15, followed by matches against India, Japan, South Korea, and Qatar, before concluding the group stage against the UAE.
By Khaled Al–Enezi
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
