Olympic Men’s Handball: Egypt Secure Quarterfinals Spot

With one game left to conclude the group stage of the Tokyo Olympic handball tournament, Africa’s lone representative in the men’s handball, the Pharaohs of Egypt, have secured a spot at the quarterfinals of the competition after defeating Sweden 27-22 on Friday at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium.

The Pharaohs enjoyed and capitalized on their dominance over the Swedish from the start of the game, ending the first half 13-9.

The Swedish came back more aggressive in the second half and managed to reduce the goals deficits, but could not overturn the score as Egyptian goalkeeper KarimHendawy became the star of the match.

The 33-year-old African Handball Championship two-time goal medalist denied the Swedish by saving 17 attempts at goal. Despite the result, Sweden are also through to the last eight of the competition.

Mohammad Sanad, who plays for USAM NîmesGard in French Division 1 handball league, recorded Egypt’s highest goals in the game by scoring six goals, followed by Yahia Omar, a Hungarian-based, with five goals.

Egypt are now in second place with six points, two points behind reigning world champions Denmark and ahead of Sweden on goal difference in Group B.

Prior to facing Sweden, the Pharaohs defeated Japan 33-29 and Portugal 37-31, but lost to Denmark 32-27.

They will face Bahrain in their final Group B stage match.

Five teams including Egypt, Demark, Sweden, Spain and France have secured their space in the last eight as the remaining three quarter-finalists will be decided from tomorrow’s games.

 Photo Credit: Reuters/Susana Vera