KUWAIT CITY, Nov 25: Today marks the conclusion of the 26th edition of the Asian Club Handball Championship, featuring two matches held in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Complex in Sabah Al-Salem suburb. The first matchup, determining third and fourth places, involves Al-Kuwait and Al-Qadsia teams at 4:00 pm. Subsequently, at 6:30 pm, the Qatari and Saudi teams vie for the coveted titles of Arab continental and Gulf champions.

Al-Arabi secured a spot in the final by topping the second group and defeating Kuwait in the semi-final with a close score of 31-30. Meanwhile, Al-Khaleej emerged victorious in the first group and overcame Al-Qadsia in the semi-final with a score of 30-29.

In praise of the tournament, Ahmed Al-Shaabi, the President of the Qatari Handball Federation, commended the successful organization of the event by Al-Qadsia. He highlighted the tournament's excellence in both organizational aspects and the high technical level displayed, escalating with each match. Al-Shaabi acknowledged Kuwait's longstanding expertise in hosting tournaments and expressed gratitude for the warm reception and brotherly atmosphere created by the organizing committee.

Alaa Al-Hamal, President of the Saudi Gulf Club, extended congratulations to Al-Dana fans for their team's historic qualification for the final match. Reflecting on the challenging semi-final against Al-Qadsia, he emphasized that the Gulf fans, known for their loyalty, deserve credit for the achievements of Al-Dana in the Asian forum. Notably, the Saudi Minister of Sports, His Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki, announced a financial reward of 100,000 Saudi riyals for each Gulf Club player following their qualification for the championship's final match.

Khaled El Anzi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff