2 days ago
Late Surge Lifts Bahrain Past Saudi
Final group match at U21 World Championship
Bahrain closed their group stage with a 26-24 win over regional rivals Saudi Arabia yesterday at the U21 World Championship in Poland.
With the outcome having no effect on their campaign, the result did serve as a form of redemption for Rikkea Alhassan's side, who fought back from the cusp, saving four match points and then launching a big comeback run to seal the win in a final push.
Bahrain wrapped up a 5-13 lead win-loss for the final round stage.
Yussef, Ali Lead Scoring Surge
Bahrain responded with sharp spells of final energy to seize control and finally eke their result in a close match.
The third set — after Saudi had taken the opener 25-21 and the second 27-25 — was the highlight at 8-7.
Yussef Shawqi's shuttling outside court kills and well-organised goal rotations outnumbered Saudi attacks.
Still, Bahrain managed to hold firm, while Ali Yousif pushed through scoring strings in the final set.
Bahrain's Late Rally Turns the Match
Saudi looked to have snuck past Bahrain, but four match points were saved.
Bahrain showed resolve in a composed turnaround. With Youssef finishing shots off at pace and headers backed by a composed three-man serve rotation, they launched a 7-2 scoring run to steal the final set.
Shaikha Hessa and Zainab also led in goalie keeps, combining to parry off pressure moments.
Elsewhere, in other matches, Poland defeated the Netherlands 25-22, 25-21, 25-17.
What It Means
The result won't change Bahrain's fate in the competition, but it will carry on their President's Cup seeding hopes.
With the third classification phase ahead, Bahrain's recent games will be reviewed.
Although they didn't make the elite 8s, a strong late result shows flashes of team strength.
Bahrain will now refocus with fresh opposition for their Polish campaign.
