The Qatari handball team secured a spot in the final of the 22nd Asian Men’s Handball Championship after a thrilling 27-26 victory over host nation Kuwait on Tuesday. The match, held in Kuwait City, went to two periods of overtime before Qatar ultimately prevailed. This win puts them one step closer to a historic seventh consecutive Asian title.
The semi-final clash took place on January 27th, 2026, at the Sheikh Saad Al Abdullah Hall in Kuwait. Qatar will now face Bahrain in the championship final on Thursday, January 29th, while Kuwait will compete against Japan for the bronze medal. The tournament also serves as a qualifying event for the 2027 World Men’s Handball Championship.
Qatar’s Road to the Asian Handball Championship Final
Kuwait initially dominated the first half, establishing a 13-8 lead. However, the Qatari team demonstrated resilience, mounting a strong comeback in the second half to level the score at 22-22, forcing the game into extra time. This shift in momentum highlighted Qatar’s tactical adjustments and determination.
The first extra period saw Kuwait regain a narrow advantage, leading 25-24. Despite this, Qatar refused to concede, battling back to secure a 27-26 win in the second overtime period. The close scoreline underscores the competitive nature of Asian handball and the increasing skill level of participating teams.
Bahrain’s Victory and the Upcoming Final
Meanwhile, Bahrain advanced to the final after a decisive 35-25 victory against Japan in the other semi-final match. Bahrain’s strong offensive performance and solid defense proved too much for the Japanese team to overcome. This sets the stage for an intriguing final between the defending champions, Qatar, and a determined Bahraini side.
Qatar has a formidable record in the Asian Men’s Handball Championship, having won the previous six editions, including a 30-24 victory over Japan in the 2024 tournament held in Bahrain. Their consistent success is attributed to a combination of experienced players, effective coaching, and a strong national sports program. The team’s pursuit of a seventh consecutive title demonstrates their commitment to excellence in team handball.
Qualification for the World Championship
Regardless of the outcome of the final, the Qatari national team has already secured their place in the 2027 World Championship, which will be hosted in Germany. This marks their eleventh appearance in the prestigious global tournament, according to the Asian Handball Federation. This qualification provides valuable international exposure and an opportunity to compete against the world’s best handball players.
The consistent qualification of Asian teams, including Qatar, for the World Championship reflects the growing popularity and development of the sport across the continent. Investment in youth programs and coaching initiatives are contributing to improved performance and increased competitiveness.
Looking ahead, the final match between Qatar and Bahrain promises to be a captivating contest. The outcome will determine not only the Asian champion but also provide a significant boost to the winning team’s morale and confidence heading into the 2027 World Championship. The performance of both teams in the final will be closely watched by handball enthusiasts and analysts alike, as they assess the current state of the sport in Asia.