By: Nabila Essam

It was a 32-32 tie game between Russia and Belarus at Borg El-Arab Stadium in one of the first matches in the preliminary round among the teams of Group H that includes Belarus, Russia, Republic of Korea and Slovenia in the IHF World Men's Handball Championship 2021.

The game between the two teams was an exciting one, as the Russian Bear compete against the Belarus national team, which includes outstanding players, in a stiff competition. It was not easy to defeat the Belarus national team as it was not an easy catch through the two halves. The Russian Bears claws and its experience failed to defeat the ambition of Belarus till the game ended in a draw at the last minute. 

Petkovic, Russia's Handball Coach team, nicknamed 'The Russian Bear,’ said about his team,” I believe we have a good chance to qualify for the next round, but it is Slovenia who have the most chances to top the group – their players are well-prepared and have been playing together for a long time.

While the coach of the Belarus national team said, "I do not see a clear team to top the group," stressing that the teams have different playing techniques.

On Tuesday, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi inaugurated the 27th IHF World Men's Handball Championship hosted by Egypt from 13 to 31 January 2021. Egypt handball national team made an easy win over Chile 35-29 in the opening game of the tournament. The tournament, which includes 32 teams, will be held for the first time in its history without fans due to the circumstances of the Corona epidemic.