In a captivating showdown at the 2025 World Handball Championship, Egypt secured a well-earned victory over hosts Croatia, winning 28-24 in the 32nd round of Group H matches to proceed to the round of 16.
The Pharaohs delivered an inspired performance on 19 January against one of the tournament’s most formidable teams and one of its host countries as the championship is triply organised by Croatia, Denmark and Norway. Egypt asserted its determination to progress deep into the competition after topping Group H with six points from three victories against Argentina, Bahrain and Croatia. Egypt was to meet Iceland, the winner of Group G, in their first match in the round of 16th on Wednesday 22 January after Al-Ahram Weekly went to print.
The final Group H game of the preliminary round in Arena Zagreb got off to a slow start for the co-hosts who could never recover against a well-oiled, slick Egyptian side.
From the opening whistle, Egypt demonstrated tactical discipline and resilience. Their defensive solidity and swift counterattacks caught Croatia off guard, allowing the Egyptians to build an early lead. Despite Croatia’s attempts to rally, Egypt maintained composure, ensuring they stayed ahead on the scoreboard.
Goalkeeper Mohamed Ali was the standout performer, earning Man of the Match. His series of crucial saves, especially in high-pressure moments, frustrated the Croatian attack and became a cornerstone of Egypt’s success.
“It’s always special to contribute to such an important win,” Ali said after the match. “Every save I made was backed by the incredible effort of my teammates, and this win belongs to all of us. It’s a fantastic way to head into the championship. We knew this game would be tough, but the team’s unity and focus made the difference.”
Captain Ahmed Hesham, or Dodo, also lauded the team’s efforts: “Every player gave their all today. We came into this game with a clear plan, and we executed it brilliantly. Beating a strong team like Croatia is a testament to our hard work and preparation.”
Yehia Khaled, one of Egypt’s key scorers in the game, emphasised the significance of the win. “This victory is not just about the points; it’s about proving that Egypt is a force to be reckoned with on the world stage. Our fans deserve moments like this, and we’re determined to give them more.”
Ali Zein, one of the team’s standout players, emphasised the significance of the win. “It was a tough match, but we stayed focused and executed our game plan perfectly. Winning against a team like Croatia on their home ground gives us a huge confidence boost. We’re ready to take on the world.”
Khaled Fathi, president of the Egyptian Handball Federation, praised the team’s spirit and preparation. “This is a proud moment for Egyptian handball. The players showed incredible character and determination. We’ve been working tirelessly to prepare for this championship, and today’s result reflects that effort. We’ll continue to support the team in every way possible.”
The Pharaohs will look to maintain their momentum in the upcoming matches as they aim to leave an indelible mark on the tournament. With their impressive victory over Croatia, Egypt not only secured a crucial two points but also sent a strong message to their competitors that they are contenders to watch in the 2025 World Handball Championship.
The Egyptian squad is a mix of experienced professionals and rising stars, with players like Mohamed Sanad and Dodo forming a formidable core. Backed by a strong defence and led by players excelling in top European clubs, the team has demonstrated its potential to compete at the highest level.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports, led by Ashraf Sobhi, has thrown its full support behind the team, underscoring the importance of a strong performance at the championship. “The entire nation stands behind our handball heroes. Their victory against Croatia is a testament to their skill and determination,” Sobhi said.
* A version of this article appears in print in the 23 January, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly
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