Croatia's centre back Luka Cindric (L) holds the ball during the 25th IHF Men's World Championship 2017 eighth final handball match Croatia vs Egypt on January 22, 2017 at the Arena in Montpellier (Photo: AFP)
Egypt's adventure in the Handball World Championship came to an end on Sunday when they lost 21-19 to Croatia in the round of 16, failing to achieve their target of going beyond this stage for the first time in 16 years.
The Pharaohs made a slow start to the game, allowing Croatia to lead 13-7 at the break.
Egypt looked capable of staging a stirring comeback after a vastly improved performance in the second half, thanks to the introduction of star Ahmed El-Ahmar.
They managed to narrow the gap to two goals but Croatia kept their composure to qualify for the quarter final, where they will face Spain on Tuesday.
Egypt have failed to reach the last eight since 2001 when they finished fourth in France for their best-ever position.
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