The sports halls in Saudi Arabia witnessed a flurry of activity as the curtain fell on the eleventh round of the Saudi Premier Handball League, with the excitement and competitiveness continuing to shape the title race. This round saw Al-Khaleej Club strengthen its absolute lead, while Al-Ahli Club maintained its relentless pressure in the pursuit, amidst exciting shifts in the middle and bottom of the standings.
Al-Khaleej wins the top match of the round in the Qatif derby
In one of the most intense matches of the season, held at the Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Sports Hall in Qatif, Al-Khaleej Club secured a thrilling victory in the Eastern Province derby against their rivals, Mudhar, with a score of 33-31 . This match was more than just a passing encounter; it reaffirmed Al-Khaleej's technical dominance, extending their perfect winning streak to reach 20 points and maintain their sole lead at the top of the standings. Matches between Al-Khaleej and Mudhar hold immense historical and popular significance due to the traditional rivalry between these two pillars of Saudi handball. This victory provided a tremendous morale boost for Al-Khaleej in their quest to retain their titles.
Al-Ahly and Al-Huda: The battle for second place and the pursuit
On the other hand, Al-Ahli refused to relinquish their chances in the competition, returning from Al-Ahsa with a valuable 30-26 . Al-Ahli delivered a remarkable second half, securing the win and raising their points tally to 16. Meanwhile, Al-Huda continued their strong performances, achieving a resounding 33-25 , drawing level with Al-Ahli on points and intensifying the battle for second place. This sets the stage for some exciting upcoming rounds to determine the final four teams.
Results that reshuffle the cards in warm and dangerous regions
The round wasn't without its excitement in the remaining matches. Al-Noor, with its vast experience, narrowly overcame Al-Wahda 25-22 , maintaining its place among the top four with 14 points and reaffirming its status as one of the sport's historical powerhouses. In the relegation battle, Al-Muheet secured a strategic victory over Al-Adalah 30-27 , a result that could prove decisive in their survival hopes at the end of the season, while Al-Safa and Al-Adalah's situations at the bottom of the standings worsened.
Saudi Premier Handball League standings (after round 11)
- 1. Gulf: 20 points
- 2. Al Ahly: 16 points
- 3. Al-Huda: 16 points
- 4. Al-Nour: 14 points
- 5. Harmful: 12 points
- 6. Al-Zulfi: 8 points
- 7. Unit: 7 points
- 8. Al-Fateh: 6 points
- 9. Perimeter: 5 points
- 10. Justice: 4 points
- 11. Al-Safa: 2 points
These results reflect the rising strength of the Saudi Handball League, which has become one of the strongest Arab and Asian leagues, thanks to the great support and high competitiveness between the clubs of the Eastern Province and Al-Ahli, which produces talents that serve the national teams in international forums.
