Iran, Bahrain post wins in Asian Olympic qualifiers
Qatar to take on India in their second game on Saturday.
Bahrain proved to be too good for Kuwait in their Group B match. Photo: Qatar Handball AssociationIran and Bahrain won their opening Group B matches in contrasting styles at the Asian Olympic Qualifying Tournament for handball on Friday.
While the Iranians edged South Korea 28-27 in a tense match, Bahrain emerged comfortable 26-21 winners over Kuwait at the Al Duhail Indoor Arena.
Iran defeated South Korea in a thrilling finish in their Group B game. Photo: Qatar Handball AssociationRESULTS
- GROUP B
- Iran bt South Korea 28-27
- Bahrain bt Kuwait 26-21
The Iranians, who have never played in an Olympics before, led 13-12 at half-time against the 1988 Seoul Games silver medallists. In the end, Iran, who had played two friendly matches against Qatar in the build-up to the tournament, prevailed by just a point.
The Bahrainis appeared to be on a mission against 1980 Moscow Olympics participants Kuwait. They led 12-10 at half-time and built on their advantage in the second half.
Meanwhile, hosts Qatar, in Group A, will play their second game against India at 6pm on Saturday. They had opened the competition in style, racing to a 49-14 win over Hong Kong on Thursday.
Saudi Arabia will take on Hong Kong in the other game on Saturday.
