Egypt’s U18 women’s team have been one of the biggest surprises of the IHF Women’s Youth World Championship. After winning their opening match, they defeated France 29–24 on Friday to secure first place in the group and a spot in the main round.
Egypt have invested heavily in women’s handball in recent years, and that work now appears to be paying off. The U18 side has impressed throughout the tournament, first upsetting Croatia 27–24 in the opening game before claiming another remarkable victory against France.
A fearless Egyptian side took control from the opening whistle against a stunned French team. Their 4–1 lead after seven minutes was only a glimpse of what was to come.
Led by an outstanding Malak Aboyoussef, Egypt repeatedly found gaps in the French defence, while their own defence and goalkeeping remained solid throughout the match.
France never managed to get back into the contest as Egypt comfortably sealed the victory and first place in the group. A match against Fiji awaits on Saturday before the Egyptians begin their main round campaign.