Sharjah falls to European champions in Handball Club World Cup

September 28, 2025 / 11:16 PM

Sharjah24: Sharjah lost to German side Magdeburg, the reigning European champions, by a score of 36-26 in the second round of Group A at the Handball Club World Cup, held at the Sports City Hall in Egypt’s Administrative Capital.

Strong start from Sharjah

Despite the loss, Asian champions Sharjah put on a commendable performance, holding their own against the German giants for much of the game. The “Kings” even led by three goals (7-4) midway through the first half before Magdeburg pulled ahead to finish the half 16-13.

MVP performance by Mahmoud Fayez

Sharjah’s Mahmoud Fayez was named Player of the Match after an outstanding display, contributing 14 times—scoring 11 goals from 12 attempts and assisting three others.

Tournament implications

With this victory, Magdeburg became the first team to secure a spot in the semifinals. Sharjah finished second in their group with two points from their win over California Eagles, scoring 61 goals and conceding 66, with a goal difference of -5.

Sharjah’s fate now depends on the results of the matches between Zamalek and Al Ahly against Barcelona and Veszprém, which will determine whether Sharjah advances to the semifinals or competes for fifth and sixth place.

Competition rules

According to the tournament regulations, the top team from each of the three groups advances to the semifinals, along with the best runner-up. The rules also prevent two teams from the same group from meeting in the semifinal stage.