Egypt beat hosts Bahrain 35-28 on Monday in the first round of the main draw to edge closer to a spot in the semi-final of the World Youth Championship.

The Pharaohs had the lead since the first minute but they could only end the first half with a small advantage, 11-9.

Egypt’s young men were mostly in control in the second half and extended their lead to end up with a big winning margin of 35-28.

The Pharaohs are now second in the group, just behind the Swedish team who conceded a surprise defeat to Denmark 26-22. They just need a draw on Tuesday against Denmark, one of the favorites, to get through to the semis.