The Saudi national handball team achieved a resounding and well-deserved victory over their Emirati counterparts with a score of 33-19 in their second match of the main round of the 22nd Asian Championship currently being held in Kuwait. This decisive win was more than just three points for the Green Falcons; it rekindled their hopes and reaffirmed their commitment to qualifying for the 2027 World Championship in Germany, confirming their strong presence and serious competition for one of the World Championship spots.

The Saudi national handball team entered the match with high concentration from the opening minutes, fully aware of the importance of winning to compensate for their previous loss. They imposed complete control on the game thanks to a well-organized defense and swift, coordinated attacks. They finished the first half with a comfortable 15-11 lead, following a balanced performance that featured outstanding play from the defense and goalkeeper in thwarting Emirati attempts. In the second half, the Saudi team continued their dominant performance, increasing the pace of the game and significantly widening the gap thanks to lightning-fast counter-attacks and high tactical discipline that unsettled the Emirati team. The match ended with a resounding Saudi victory that reflected the difference in skill and physical fitness between the two teams.

Historical context and importance of the Asian Championship

The Asian Men's Handball Championship, first held in 1977, is the continent's premier handball event, where Asia's elite teams compete not only for the continental title but also for qualification to the World Championship. This edition is doubly important as it serves as the main gateway to the 2027 World Championship, making every match feel like a final, especially in the later stages. Qualifying for the World Championship is a strategic objective for national federations, as it positively impacts the development of the sport domestically, increases its popularity, and raises the national team's international ranking.

The impact of the victory and the future of the Green team in the tournament

This victory comes at an ideal time for the Saudi national team, propelling them back into contention after their opening loss to Qatar in the main round. The win has given the players a tremendous morale boost, demonstrating their ability to overcome setbacks and bounce back strongly. The Green Falcons had already delivered outstanding performances in the first round, topping their group with a perfect record after consecutive victories against strong teams like Japan, Iran, and Australia. Now, all eyes are on the highly anticipated and crucial match between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain next Sunday, a game that will largely determine the Green Falcons' fate in qualifying for the World Cup. A victory is essential to ensure their continued journey towards Germany 2027.

In a gesture reflecting his commitment and professionalism, Senegalese international goalkeeper Edouard Mendy directly to Al-Ahli's training ground to participate in the team's training session immediately upon his arrival in Jeddah on Friday. This move comes in preparation for the upcoming match against NEOM on Saturday evening, as part of the 18th round of the Saudi Professional League.

Mendy had returned to the Kingdom after the conclusion of his participation with his national team, Senegal, in the recent Africa Cup of Nations. Despite the fatigue of travel and the physical strain of participating in a major continental tournament, the veteran goalkeeper insisted on wasting no time and immediately joined his team's preparations, a move that was greatly appreciated by the coaching staff, his teammates, and Al-Ahli fans.

Background of Mendy's transfer and its impact on the Saudi League

The signing of Edouard Mendy by Al-Ahli in the summer of 2023 is considered one of the most prominent deals witnessed by the Saudi League, as part of the club's project to attract international football stars. After a career full of achievements with English club Chelsea, culminating in winning the UEFA Champions League title in 2021 and receiving the FIFA Best Goalkeeper award in the same year, his transfer was a qualitative addition not only to Al-Ahli but to the entire league, raising the level of competition and attracting the attention of global followers.

The importance of Mendy's return to Al Ahly's lineup

Mendy's return is of paramount importance to Al Ahli at this crucial stage of the season. The Senegalese goalkeeper missed eight consecutive matches due to international duty, a period that saw inconsistency in Al Ahli's defense. The team is counting on his experience and high technical abilities to solidify the back line and provide the stability needed to compete strongly for a top spot in the league standings. Al Ahli currently sits in third place with 37 points, only behind Al Nasr in second place on goal difference, making every upcoming match a final in the title race.

This season, the 33-year-old Mendy has made 18 appearances for Al-Ahli, keeping seven clean sheets and conceding 20 goals. These statistics demonstrate his positive impact on the team's defense and confirm that his return represents a significant morale and tactical boost for Al-Ahli's ambitions this season.

Spanish coach Pep Guardiola made strong statements, describing Premier League leaders Arsenal as "the best team in the world right now," and emphasizing that his Manchester City side faces a significant challenge in catching them in the tight race for the title. These remarks came as he defended his players after a difficult week that saw a dip in results, raising some doubts about the team's ability to maintain its domestic dominance.

Competition context and historical background

This rivalry takes on a special dimension as it pits Pep Guardiola against his former protégé, Mikel Arteta, who served as his assistant at Manchester City before taking the reins at Arsenal. Arteta has successfully built a young and competitive team, bringing the Gunners back to prominence after years of inconsistency, and nearly securing the title last season before faltering in the final stretch. Now, Arsenal appears more mature and stronger, putting significant pressure on Manchester City, the reigning champions and European title holders, who have become accustomed to dominating the scene in recent years.

A difficult week and increasing challenges

Manchester City have endured a difficult period recently, losing the Manchester derby to their rivals United, followed by a shock 3-1 defeat to Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League. These results, coupled with a recent winless streak in the league, have allowed Arsenal to extend their lead at the top of the table to a significant seven points in the title race.

Despite this setback, Guardiola expressed his absolute confidence in his team, saying: “I have an exceptional team and a fantastic group of players, and we are completely united. We are a special football team, and I have no doubt about that.” He pointed out that the team is still strongly competing for four different titles, reflecting the depth and strength of the squad he has at his disposal.

Praise for the opponent and its expected impact

Guardiola's praise for Arsenal wasn't just a passing compliment; it was a detailed analysis of the London club's performance. He said, "They are definitely the best team in the world right now. Look at the Champions League, the Premier League, the FA Cup, the League Cup… they are the best team at the moment." He pointed out that Arsenal's seven wins in the continental competition this season were conclusive proof of their strength. These statements are seen as having a psychological dimension, raising expectations for Arsenal while simultaneously relieving pressure on City's players and motivating them to play the role of the "chaser.".

Guardiola added: “We hope to get closer to them, and to keep improving, so that we have a chance to catch up with them.”.

Defensive solutions to compensate for absences

City's poor run of form coincided with significant absences in defense, most notably injuries to Portuguese star Rúben Dias and Croatian Josko Gvardiol. To address this shortage, the team is relying on new signing Mark Guehi, who arrived from Crystal Palace and is expected to make his debut against Wolverhampton. Guardiola commented on this addition, saying: "It will help us a lot; Mark's experience is exceptional. With two key defenders out, his presence is a huge positive for us," giving the team a morale and tactical boost to regain its balance.