Staff Reporter
Doha: Team Qatar’s handball team secured the silver medal at the GCC Games Doha 2026 after a commanding 32-24 victory over Saudi Arabia in the decisive closing match of the tournament, held at Duhail Arena amid strong crowd support.
The Qatari side produced an impressive display from the opening whistle, imposing complete control through disciplined defensive organisation and rapid counterattacks that disrupted the Saudi team’s rhythm throughout the contest.
Team Qatar established their dominance early and entered halftime with a commanding eight-goal advantage at 19-11 after delivering one of their strongest performances of the tournament.
The hosts maintained the same intensity in the second half, with the technical staff successfully rotating players without affecting performance levels or concentration. Qatar’s consistency in both attack and defence allowed them to comfortably preserve their lead and close out victory to finish the competition with six points and confirm second place overall.
Bahrain claimed the gold medal after topping the standings with a perfect tally of eight points, while Saudi Arabia settled for bronze with four points.
In a gesture of appreciation during halftime, the Organising Committee of the Games honoured official sponsors and strategic partners in recognition of their logistical and financial contributions to the success of the regional event.
Officials highlighted the importance of these partnerships in reinforcing Qatar’s growing reputation as a leading destination for major sporting events, underpinned by world-class infrastructure, organisational expertise and proven hosting capabilities.
The final match was attended by several senior sports officials and dignitaries from across the Gulf region, led by Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain and Ahmed Al Shaabi.
Also present were Ali Ishaqi, Hassan bin Nasser Hilal and Shabib Al Hajri, alongside a number of Gulf federation officials and sports leaders.
Among those attending the match were Mohammed Al Fadala, Majdi Mirza and Najla Al Khayarin, in addition to official delegations from the Qatar and Saudi Olympic committees.
Following the final whistle, the medal ceremony took place in a celebratory atmosphere, with widespread praise from Gulf officials and delegations for Qatar’s successful organisation of the fourth edition of the GCC Games and the high standards delivered throughout the tournament.
