By Hana Al Dayyat
OCA Young Reporter
Sanya, China, April 21, 2026: Jordan bounced back from their opening loss to defeat the Maldives 2-0 in men's beach handball at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya on Tuesday, April 21.
The match took place under the same intense heat that marked the day's earlier games. The sun continued to beat down on the sand court at the beach handball venue, with temperatures remaining extremely high. Despite the challenging conditions, both teams gave their full effort throughout the contest.
Jordan controlled the first period from the start. The team attacked with purpose and defended solidly, not allowing the Maldives to build any momentum. The first period ended 14-6 in favor of Jordan.
The second period was more competitive. The Maldives showed improvement and pushed harder to close the gap. Jordan, however, remained composed and managed the game well. The final score of the second period was 16-13 to Jordan, securing the match 2-0.
Ahmad Al Otaibi, a player from the Jordan national beach handball team, spoke after the match.
"Thank God, we achieved this victory against the Maldives. This win means a lot to the team morally and has motivated us. With the training and preparation we did in Jordan, as well as the friendly matches we played here in China, we hope to achieve the successes that Jordan is wishing for," Al Otaibi said.
A small but supportive crowd gathered around the court to watch the match. Fans from both teams cheered throughout, with the Jordanian supporters showing enthusiasm after each goal. The atmosphere remained lively despite the draining heat that affected players and spectators alike.
The win marked Jordan's first victory of the Asian Beach Games. The team opened their campaign earlier on Tuesday with a competitive 2-0 loss to Thailand.
Jordan is competing in Group B alongside Qatar, Oman, Thailand, Pakistan, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Mongolia.
Jordan will now face Pakistan in their third group match on Thursday, April 23.
