Oman into quarter final of Youth Beach Handball
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.'
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