KUWAIT CITY, Sept 13: Sulibikhat Club secured its first victory in Group B of the preliminary round of the 40th Arab Club Handball Championship, narrowly defeating Syrian side Al-Nawaeer 32-31 at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Hall. The tournament continues until September 22.

Today’s schedule features four matches: In Group A, Al-Taliaa face Shabab in a “Syrian derby” at 2:00 p.m., while Kuwait Club takes on Naft Al-Basra at 8:00 p.m. In Group B, Al-Nawaeer meet Al-Hashd Al-Iraqi at 4:00 p.m., followed by Egypt’s National Bank versus Qatar at 6:00 p.m.

The tournament’s opening day saw defending champion Kuwait Club make a strong statement with a commanding 38-19 victory over Al-Taliaa (Syria), with Franks Marzo named Best Player. Kazma also triumphed over Shabab (Syria) 26-21, earning Haider Dashti the Best Player award. Meanwhile, Sulibikhat lost 29-31 to Egypt’s National Bank, and Al-Nawaeer drew 29-29 with Qatar.

Fadel Al-Nimr, President of the Arab Handball Federation, highlighted the special significance of the championship, which brings together Arab nations. He praised the high level of play on the opening day, signaling a competitive and exciting tournament ahead.

Al-Nimr noted that the inclusion of three Syrian teams added extra excitement, especially after Syrian sports endured a long hiatus. He also emphasized the Federation’s plan to expand future editions to include more teams, increasing competition, and benefits for all participants.

He extended his gratitude to the Kuwait Club for hosting the championship for the second consecutive year, praising Kuwait’s sporting legacy and its ability to host major regional tournaments.

Nasser Mnsi, Secretary-General of Sulibikhat Club, thanked the Kuwait Club and the Arab Handball Federation for organizing the event. He highlighted the importance of Sulibikhat returning to international competition after 15 years, noting the club’s past success in the Arab Championship.

Mnsi acknowledged the challenges of the opening match and expressed confidence that Salibikhat players would deliver improved performances in upcoming fixtures.

In the Kuwaiti First Division handball league, Khaitan defeated Yarmouk 34-30, Al-Qurain beat Al-Sahel 42-30, and the Youth National Team drew 33-33 with Fahaheel.

Current league standings: Khaitan 4 points, Al-Qurain 2 points, Yarmouk 2 points, Fahaheel 1 point, and Al-Sahel 0 points.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff