Egypt’s men handball team claimed their first victory at the Rio de Janeiro Games in style, beating four-time European and world champions Sweden 26-25 for the first time in their history after producing a stunning display.

With the score tied at 25-25, winger Mohamed Hashem eluded a challenge and scored a precious winner as Sweden failed to go level with almost nine seconds remaining.

It was Egypt’s first victory over the mighty Sweden in six matches, with the European powerhouses winning four and drawing once.

Sweden led 13-12 at halftime in a nail-biting affair but Egypt proved a tough nut to crack, inspired by superb displays from Ali Zein, who scored three goals, and Mohamed Sanad who scored seven.

Both sides failed to establish a big lead in the second period until Egypt snatched a memorable win at the end.

The Pharaohs made up for their opening 27-26 loss to Slovenia.

Egypt lie third in Group B with two points, two behind joint leaders Germany and Slovenia. The top four teams will qualify for the quarter finals. 

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