Shabab Al Ahli overcome Al Bataeh in UAE Youth Handball League thriller
- Last updated: September 29, 2026 | 10:31
Shabab Al Ahli held their nerve to secure a dramatic 41–40 victory over Al Bataeh in the UAE Youth Handball League on Monday, prevailing in a tense penalty shootout after the two sides could not be separated at the end of regulation time.
Al Bataeh made the stronger start and took a 20–18 lead into half-time, but Shabab Al Ahli responded with a determined second-half performance. The visitors gradually closed the gap and levelled the contest at 37–37 by the end of regulation time, forcing the match into penalty throws.
With the outcome resting on the decisive shootout, both sides remained composed under pressure. Shabab Al Ahli ultimately converted the crucial opportunities to edge ahead 41–40 and claim victory in a closely fought encounter at Al Bataeh Club Hall.
The match remained fiercely competitive throughout, with momentum shifting between the two teams and neither side able to establish a decisive advantage during the closing stages. The narrow margin reflected the intensity of a contest that went down to the final throws before Shabab Al Ahli secured the win.
Dr. Major Omar Zubair Al Marzouqi officiated the closely contested Youth Handball League match between Shabab Al Ahli and Al Bataeh.
International, Olympic, and world-level referee Omar Al Marzouqi began his playing career with Al Nasr Club from 1984 to 1998 before transitioning into officiating.
He shattered the European monopoly in handball officiating by becoming the first Asian referee to take charge of World Cup semi-finals and finals, ushering in a new era for Arab and Asian officials.
His credentials sparkled with appearances at 60 global championships, including: World Championships in Sweden and Spain, World Youth Cups in Egypt and Greece, Women's World Cup in South Korea, Asian Games in Qatar and China, Olympic Games in London 2012 and Rio 2016 and Confederations Cup in Qatar.
In August 2016, he made history as the only Asian selected to represent Brazil as a technical observer, overseeing 12 high-stakes men’s matches, including a quarter-final and semi-final.
Elsewhere, Dibba Al Hisn produced the biggest winning margin of the day, defeating Al Wahda 59–18 at Al Ittihad School Hall. Al Dhafra also recorded a commanding victory, overcoming Bani Yas 25–8 at Ghiyathi Centre Hall.
At Al Jazira Club Hall, Al Jazira edged Kalba 46–43 in a high-scoring encounter, while Al Wasl prevailed in another closely contested match, defeating Al Nasr 46–44 at Al Wasl Club Hall.
Sharjah also enjoyed a convincing result, defeating Mleeha 41–14 at Samnan Hall.