TUNISIA: The tournament, currently underway in Tunisia, features 32 teams across both men’s and women’s categories. Oman’s qualification came after a hard-fought and valuable victory over Croatia in the second round, despite earlier losses to European powerhouses Germany and Hungary.
In their match against Germany, Oman impressed with a competitive first half that ended 23-18 in Germany’s favor after several tense tie scores. However, a dip in momentum in the second half led to a 22-14 defeat.
Facing Hungary, the team showed determination but ultimately lost both halves 22-16. Key players Mohammed Al-Hasani and Imad Al-Ghailani made persistent efforts to close the gap, though Hungary held firm control.
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Despite the setbacks, Oman’s performance stood out, especially given the stark differences in international experience and physicality compared to their European rivals. Their victory over Croatia secured their historic place in the quarter-finals, joining Germany, Spain, and Hungary from Group A.
The Omani squad now prepares to face Brazil—one of the tournament’s top contenders—in a high-stakes quarter-final clash.
