Budapest, Hungary: The Qatari Handball team qualified for the second round of the 2013 IHF World Men’s Youth Championship after beating Tunisia 22-21.
On their way to the knock-out stage, Qatar could not prevail against the strong Swedish team on August 15, but this does not change the great aim of the team from head coach Silvio Ivandija at all.
“It was clear that we wouldn’t have a chance against Sweden,” Ivandija said.
He added: “That’s why we gave some players a chance to rest.”
Reaching the round of the best 16 teams would be a huge success for Qatar.
The current success of the Qataris is also the result of good and well-organised preparation.
The team have been working together for four months and a training camp in Croatia was part of the preparations for this tournament.
Off-court, Qatar have proved their good shape in this tournament. At the same time, it was a good publicity for the upcoming Men’s Handball World Championship 2015 in Qatar.
“The whole country is really looking forward to this event,” said Ivandija.
He added: “And that’s why people also follow what is happening in Hungary, and our performances here.” QNA
