Shabab Al Ahli outlast Al Wasl in Dubai derby, Sharjah edge Al Nasr in thriller

Shabab Al Ahli secured a 31–27 victory over Al Wasl in the UAE Men’s Handball General League match held at the Al Wasl Stadium in Dubai on Saturday.

Shabab Al Ahli held a three-goal advantage at half-time, leading 16–13, and maintained their lead in the second half to seal a four-goal win.

Al Wasl looked to fight back after the break, but Shabab Al Ahli held firm to finish the match with a 31–27 victory.

Dr. Major Omar Zubair Al Marzouqi attended the match between Shabab Al Ahli and Al Wasl and supervise the group of referees.

International, Olympic, and world-level referee Dr Omar Al Marzouqi began his playing career with Al Nasr Club from 1984 to 1998 before transitioning into officiating.

He went on to break new ground in international handball, challenging the long-standing European dominance in refereeing. Al Marzouqi became the first Asian referee to officiate at World Cup semi-finals and finals, paving the way for greater recognition of Arab and Asian officials on the global stage.

His distinguished career spans 60 international championships and major sporting events, including the World Championships in Sweden and Spain, the World Youth Championships in Egypt and Greece, the Women’s World Cup in South Korea, the Asian Games in Qatar and China, and the Olympic Games in London in 2012 and Rio de Janeiro in 2016. He also officiated at the Confederations Cup in Qatar.

In August 2016, Al Marzouqi achieved another milestone when he became the only Asian selected to serve as a technical observer at the Olympic Games in Brazil. In that role, he monitored 12 high-stakes men’s matches, including a quarter-final and a semi-final, further cementing his reputation as a leading figure in international handball.

Meanwhile, Sharjah narrowly edged past Al Nasr in a 30–29 classic at Sharjah Club.

Both sides exchanged relentless attacks throughout a high-tempo match, but the defensive composure of the hosts proved decisive in the closing minutes.

Elsewhere, local rivals Al Dhaid and Mleiha played out a thrilling 30–30 draw.

The offensive battle saw both teams trade goals until the final horn, ultimately sharing the points in one of the most balanced fixtures of the round.

Earlier, Al Wasl secured an impressive 47–40 victory over Al Jazira in the Youth League match.

Al Wasl took control in the first half, establishing a 24–21 lead at the break after an attacking display that put them three goals ahead of their opponents.

The home side maintained their advantage in the second half, continuing to find the net and withstand Al Jazira’s efforts to close the gap.

Al Wasl eventually sealed a seven-goal victory, finishing the match 47–40.