Doha: Al Arabi defeated Al Ahli 29-24 in their match on Monday as part of the fifth round of the Qatar Handball Federation Cup for the 2025/2026 season. In two other matches in the same round, Qatar SC defeated Al Gharafa 32-26, and Al Shamal defeated Al Khor 28-27.

According to Qatar News Agency, the fifth round continues on Tuesday, with two matches: Al Sadd vs. the Youth National Team, and Al Wakrah vs. the Junior National Team. The tournament is being held under a new format this season, with the participating teams divided into two groups. The first group includes Al Ahli, Al Shamal, Al Sadd, Al Khor, Al Arabi, and the Youth National Team, while the second group includes Al Duhail, Al Gharafa, Al Wakrah, Qatar SC, and the Junior National Team.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals. The Men's Handball Federation Cup is being held during the league's break due to the international players joining the Qatari national team, which is preparing for the 22nd Asian Men's Handball Championship scheduled for next January in Kuwait. This tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2027 World Championship.

Al Arabi won the title last season (2024-2025), while Al Rayyan finished as runners-up and Al Duhail in third place.