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Observer
21-06-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Oman into quarter final of Youth Beach Handball
MUSCAT, JUNE 21 The Oman U-17 beach handball team imprinted their name in the history as they secured historic slot in the quarters of the 2025 IHF Men's Youth Beach Handball World Championship in Hammamet, Tunisia. This accomplishment occurred in the team's first ever appearance at the world finals as they now proudly joined the top eight teams in the world Oman's young boys sealed their place in the quarterfinals after an impressive run in the main round including a stunning victory over reigning champions Croatia by 2-1. Despite the defeats against European heavyweights including Germany and Hungary on Friday, Oman's performance was enough to secure fourth place in Group A and to meet against Brazil who ended as group leader in group B in a tight quarterfinal clash. The current edition of the IHF Youth Beach Handball World Championship is the tournament's largest to date as 32 teams are vying across the men's and women's categories. Oman's journey to the top eight in their debut showcased the proper planning by the Oman Handball Association (OHA) and the coaching staff for providing the required environment to the players to deliver a competitive spirit in the global stage. In the main round, Oman's thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia, one of the title favorites, secured their advancement to the quarterfinals. Despite back-to-back defeats against Germany and Hungary on Friday as both matches ended by 2-0, the Omani players displayed a fighting show and tactical discipline earned the admiration of fans and officials alike. Oman met Brazil late on Saturday in the quarterfinals in a tough encounter. Brazil are among the nominated teams to clinch the title. The Brazilian players delivered a solid display as they finished first in Group B after a dominant performance throughout the tournament. From group A, Germany ended as topper and then followed by Spain while Hungary and Oman in third and fourth places respectively while Tunisia, Thailand and Argentina joined the group leaders Brazil from Group B. The quarterfinal winners will proceed to the semifinals bringing them one step closer to global glory. A MOMENT OF PRIDE The head of Oman's delegation and Oman Handball Association (OHA) board member, Mohammed al Zahoori, expressed deep pride in the team's progress in the global event. 'We are proud and honored to see Oman's flag raised among the world's best. Reaching the quarterfinals is a major milestone for Omani beach handball and a direct result of the hard work by the players, coaching staff and the backing of the Oman Handball Association.' ' This achievement reflects not only the team's dedication but also the Association's long-term vision and strategic investment in youth development,' he ended The young players voiced proudly on their excitement and determination to carry the momentum forward. Oman's Yazan al Buraiki hopes were that this achievement should encourage for more support and continuity for youth beach handball in Oman. ' We have seen the difference between us and some of the top nations and many of whom have ongoing leagues and programs. Hence, we look for the same development in order to be more stronger in the next participations,' he concluded Mohammed al Hosni said it is a huge honor to be here. ' Advancing to the quarterfinals in our first world championship is a dream come true. We are proud to represent Oman at this level.' His teammate, Imad al Ghailani said that we will give everything during our clash against Brazil. ' This experience is invaluable and we are learning from every match.'


Observer
18-06-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Spain defeat Oman in opener of Beach Handball championship
MUSCAT, JUNE 18 The Oman U-17 national beach handball team began their campaign at the 2025 IHF Men's Junior Beach Handball World Championship with a challenging match against Spain. The national team players suffered to a 2-0 loss against the European giants in straight sets (12-24, 12-24) in their opening Group A fixture. Despite the defeat, Oman's junior stars showed strong display and promising performance beside their determination against one of the tournament favorites and a strong contender for the championship title. Spain, the 2018 Youth Olympic gold medalists, showcased their experience and clinical execution throughout both halves. Oman's standout performers were Yazan al Buraiki and Imad al Ghailani, who managed to contribute the majority of the team's points and created several offensive threats with their agility and sharp movement during the opening match. The tough encounter, however, also highlighted Spain's defensive strength, particularly their goalkeeper, who was a dominant presence throughout and thwarted several Omani scoring opportunities. With the triumph, Spain gained their first winning points while Oman met Puerto Rico late on Wednesday. The chances still high for the qualification to the second round due to Iran's withdrawal from the group. The first half saw Oman earned an initial possession after a strong defensive effort by Salim al Oraimi, but the team was unable to capitalise on early chances. Spain quickly bounced back and gained a two-point lead but Oman equalised through Yazan al Buraiki's aggressive play, bringing the score to 4-4. A series of missed chances and continued brilliance from Spain's goalkeeper allowed the Spanish team to pull away. Oman's head coach, Jaber Yaqub al Balushi, called a timeout to regroup but Spain extended their lead as they ended the first half at 24-12. In the following half, a similar scenario were delivered by national team players. Oman fought hard to gain momentum as Al Buraiki and Al Ghailani were stepping up. The match was tied as they reached to 6-6 draw in the early minutes but Spain gradually widened the gap to 14-6. After another timeout, Oman attempted a comeback as Al Ghailani made several successful runs down the right flank, scoring vital points. However, Spain maintained their dominance and sealed the match by taking the second half 24-12.