Egypt delivered a bitter ending to their World Handball Championship group stage campaign, as the national team conceded a stunning 27-26 defeat to Bahrain on Wednesday.

The first half ended in a 12-12 draw and the Pharaohs were in the lead until three minute from time when the Asian Minnows scored three straight goals to clinch their first victory in the tournament.

Egypt are now fifth in the group with only two points after a single win against Tunisia and four defeats to Germany, France, Spain and Bahrain.

Wednesday’s frustrating defeat will relegate the Egyptians to play a placement match (17 to 20) against group B’s fifth on Saturday.

Earlier in the day, Germany eased past Tunisia 36-26.

Top three France, Spain and Germany have all passed through to the main round of the competition.