Asian champions Al Duhail SC proved to be too good for New York City THC in the first classification match of the IHF Super Globe in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, today.

Duhail, playing for fifth to 10th positions, overpowered the North American and Caribbean winners 24-19, earning their first win in the tournament.

Mohamed Maaref, who scored seven goals, led Duhail’s charge against the US side. Hamdi Ayed (five) and Marwane Sassi (four) added to the goals tally.

Earlier, Duhail had lost to defending champions Barcelona FC 26-38 in their opening encounter – the quarterfinal. Duhail had qualified directly to the last eight by virtue of being the Asian champions. The defeat to Barcelona saw them drop out of contention for the top five places.

Barcelona, who never once let the game out of their control, led 17-10 at half-time. Barca began their scoring run soon after the start, thanks to line player Ludovic Fabregas.

After just seven minutes, with his team trailing 2-5, Duhail coach Goran Dzokic called for the first time-out.

Duhail fought well in the opening 15 minutes, staying within striking distance of their rivals at 5-7, but the champions soon took control.

Barca soared to a 10-goal lead with 16 minutes remaining (28-18) and finished the game with a 12-goal advantage.

Mohamed Maaref was Qatar’s top scorer with six goals while Alaya Khaled (five) and Ahmad Madadi (four) scored the other goals.

Duhail will next play African winners Zamalek SC of Egypt on Saturday.