Bahrain Primed for Oman Clash After Sweeping Iraq

TDT | Manama

Email: hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s volleyball team is set to continue their strong start in the 23rd Arab Men’s Volleyball Championship as they face Oman today, with momentum fully on their side. Coming off an impressive straight-sets win over Iraq yesterday at the Isa Bin Rashid Volleyball Arena, Bahrain’s opening match sweep (29-27, 25-23, 25-20) solidified their position in Group A. Meanwhile, Oman will be seeking to recover from a tough 0-3 loss to Tunisia in their opener.

Iraq Tested Bahrain’s Composure Early

Friday’s win over Iraq was a hard-earned one, with Iraq pressing Bahrain in the early moments of the match. Iraq’s Mohammed Karim kept Bahrain’s defense on alert with relentless attacks, and the hosts initially trailed as they worked to find their footing. A pivotal play by Hani Ali helped spark Bahrain’s momentum, and with Ali Ebrahim and Mohammed Yaqoob leading the response, Bahrain clawed back from a 15-12 deficit to tie it at 21-21. Strong defensive stands and decisive attacks from captain Nasser Anan ultimately secured the opening set for Bahrain at 29-27.

Bahrain’s Bench Depth Shines in Set Two

The second set saw Bahrain picking up steam, as Yaqoob’s and Ebrahim’s serves kept Iraq on the defensive. Yet, Iraq countered effectively with strong blocks, making Bahrain’s errors from the service line even more costly. Key substitutions proved decisive for Bahrain, as Mohammed Anan and Mohammed Jassim contributed timely points, pushing Bahrain to a narrow 25-23 set win.

Closing Out with Conviction

In the third set, Iraq attempted to mount a comeback, but Bahrain’s response was quick and composed. Mohammed Anan, playing as a substitute, delivered powerful serves and pinpoint attacks, with Nasser Anan and Jassim also making critical plays. Bahrain closed the set 25-20, sealing the match 3-0 and energizing the home crowd in Riffa.

Group A Showdown with Oman and Tunisia Looming

Bahrain heads into today’s game against Oman with an advantage, as Oman seeks redemption after a 0-3 loss to Tunisia in their opening match. Group A includes Bahrain, Iraq, Oman, and Tunisia, with the top two teams advancing to next week’s quarterfinals. A win over Oman would position Bahrain well in the standings before facing Tunisia on Tuesday, their toughest group-stage opponent and a team with an Arab Championship legacy that includes a record seven titles.

Backed by home-court support, Bahrain aims to build on their success and set a dominant tone in Group A. With a clear path to the quarterfinals in sight, Bahrain’s pursuit of their first Arab Men’s Volleyball Championship title since 2008 looks more promising with each set won.