Egypt successfully defended their crown at the 27th edition of the Men’s Handball Africa Cup of Nations after a commanding 37–24 victory over Tunisia in the final played at BK Arena on Saturday, January 31.

The all–North African final showdown began cautiously, with the first goal coming after 2 minutes and 39 seconds through Egypt’s Ahmed Hichem. From that moment, the Pharaohs took control and maintained the lead throughout the first half, heading into the break with a comfortable 17–10 advantage.

The second half followed a similar pattern as Egypt, who entered the final as favourites, dominated proceedings and showed superior tactical discipline and depth to keep Tunisia at bay and seal another historic triumph.

Tunisia, who had finished as bronze medalists in the previous edition, were unable to match Egypt’s intensity.

Earlier, in the third-place playoff, Cape Verde defeated Algeria 29–23 to claim the bronze medal and complete an impressive tournament campaign.

Five nations secured qualification for the 2027 IHF Men’s World Championship, scheduled in Germany from January 13–31, 2027. They include champions Egypt, runners-up Tunisia, bronze medalists Cape Verde as well as Algeria and Angola who finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Meanwhile, Yahia Omar of Egypt was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) while Felix Kambundu of Zambia emerged as the tournament top scorer with 49 goals.

Final ranking:

1-Egypt (champions)

2-Tunisia

3-Cape Verde

4-Algeria

5-Angola

6-Nigeria

7-Morocco

8-Guinea

9-Gabon

10- Cameroon

11- Congo Brazzaville

12-Rwanda

13-Bénin

14-Zambia

15-Kenya

16-Uganda

All-Star Team

Goalkeeper: Aly Mohammed (Egypt)

Best Left Wing: Ahmed Nafea (Egypt)

Best Left Back: Ahmed Hichem (Egypt)

Best Centre Back: Bilel Abdelli (Tunisia)

Best Right Back: Yahia Omar (Egypt)

Best Right Wing: Mohammed Emad (Egypt)

Best Pivot: Islem Jbeli (Tunisia)

Most Valuable Player: Yahia Omar (Egypt)