Siwan: Five European friendlies for Kuwait U-19 handball team during Slovenia–Croatia camp

Kuwait's national youth handball team is intensifying its preparations for the Asian U-19 Championship with a two-week training camp in Slovenia and Croatia. This European stint is a crucial part of their build-up to the tournament, scheduled to take place in China from July 15 to 27. The Asian Championship holds significant importance as it also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 World Championship in North Macedonia, with the top four teams earning a coveted spot. The delegation comprises 24 players, along with administrative and technical staff. However, four players were unable to join due to high school examinations. Faisal Siwan, Director of National Teams at the Kuwait Handball Federation, confirmed that the team, nicknamed the "Blue" youth team, will engage in five friendly matches during their European camp. They are set to face formidable opponents including Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. These fixtures are integral to a structured preparation plan meticulously designed by the technical and administrative staff in coordination with the federation's board, aiming for optimal readiness. Siwan acknowledged that the current preparation period is relatively short, lasting just 16 days outside of domestic training. He also noted that recent interruptions in sporting activity in Kuwait have impacted the team's overall readiness. Despite these challenges, he emphasized the players' determination to represent Kuwait with pride and their commitment to giving maximum effort to compete at a high level in the continental championship. He expressed confidence in the squad's capabilities and reiterated the team's ambition to secure a place at the World Championship. Kuwait has been drawn into Group B for the Asian Championship, alongside Iran, India, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, and the UAE. Their campaign begins on July 15 against Iran, followed by matches against India, Japan, South Korea, and Qatar, before concluding the group stage against the UAE.

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The Blue youth team will play five friendly matches during the European camp against Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.