DOHA: Qatar’s handball squad is braced for a showdown with Belarus tomorrow, Monday, at Duhail Sports Hall in a friendly match ahead of the 22nd Asian Men’s Handball Championship.
The tournament is set to be held in Kuwait from January 15 to 26, 2026, serving as a qualifier for the 2027 IHF Men’s Handball World Championship in Germany.
Qatar had played a friendly match on Saturday against Iraq, securing a 33-23 victory. The squad recently played two friendlies against Saudi Arabia, losing the first 26-25 and winning the second 31-25.
Through these friendlies, Qatar aspire to reach the pinnacle of full readiness ahead of the Asian championship contests, with the draw placing Qatar in Group A alongside South Korea and Oman, while Group B includes Bahrain, Iraq, China, and Jordan.
Group C comprises Kuwait, the UAE, Hong Kong, and India, whereas Group D features Japan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the main round, featuring eight teams competing in a round‑robin format.
