TEHRAN, Jan. 13 (MNA) – Iran defeated New Zealand 40-13 in the 21st AHF Asian Men’s Handball Championship on Friday.

Iran will meet China and South Korea in Group B on Sunday and Tuesday, respectively.

The competition is scheduled to take place from 11 to 25 January in Manama and Isa Town in Bahrain, with 16 teams vying for the coveted crown of Asian champions.

The top two sides in each group will progress to the main round, with the top two sides in each main round group progressing to the semi-finals. The final and the bronze medal match will take place in Manama.

The top four sides at the 2024 AHF Asian Men’s Handball Championship will seal a ticket to the 2025 IHF Men’s World Championship, while New Zealand qualify if they finish fifth or higher in the competition.

MP/TSN