MANAMA, Jan 21: Kuwait secured a commanding victory over Iraq with a score of 32-20 in the 21st Asian Handball Championship, propelling them into the semi-finals and securing a coveted spot in the 2025 Handball World Cup.This triumph marks Kuwait's return to the World Cup after a 15-year hiatus, with their last participation dating back to the Croatian Championship in 2009.

With this significant win, the Kuwait now holds 4 points, ensuring advancement to the tournament's semi-finals and securing one of the four well-deserved qualification tickets for the 2025 World Cup. The national handball team expressed a profound sense of responsibility, emphasizing their commitment both in words and actions. They have effectively paved the way for Kuwait's honorable representation in this major continental forum.

The achievement is the result of concerted efforts, notably by the Federation's Board of Directors, which navigated sanctions and provided essential support. The appointment of the Algerian coach, Saeed Hegazy, played a crucial role. Hegazy led the team to a third-place finish and a bronze medal in the Asian Games in China, signaling the team's resurgence after lean years. The team also performed admirably in the 2024 Paris Olympic qualifiers held in Qatar.It is worth mentioning that the Kuwait previously qualified for the World Cup finals eight times in 1982, 1995, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2009.

Dedicating the historic achievement, Qayed Al-Adwani, the Secretary General of the Handball Federation, dedicated the Blue Hand's qualification for the 2025 World Cup to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al-Sabah, and the loyal Kuwaiti fans who steadfastly supported the team. Al-Adwani commended the players for showcasing resilience and responsibility, particularly in the match against Iraq, where they displayed remarkable performance from start to finish.

After securing the "Masters" bronze and World Cup qualification, the kuwait has rightfully reclaimed its place among the top teams in the region. Al-Adwani expressed gratitude to the players, the technical and administrative staff, and the handball federation for their outstanding contributions that brought joy to Kuwaiti fans.The tournament's main stage features two groups, with Japan, Qatar, the UAE, and Iran comprising the first group, and Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, and South Korea forming the second group.

Khaled El Anzi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff