USA youth handball team secures gold at IHF Trophy
The United States men’s youth handball team secured the gold medal at the 2026 Men’s IHF Trophy – North America and the Caribbean, defeating Martinique 26:25 in the final held October 10 at the Puerto Rico Olympic Training Center in Salinas.
Path to the Final in Salinas
Eight teams competed in the regional tournament from October 6 to 10, split into two groups of four. In Group B, the United States finished at the top after earning a 31:28 win over Puerto Rico, a 33:24 victory against Greenland, and a 29:28 win over Martinique. Puerto Rico finished last in Group B despite a 36:34 win over Greenland, as Martinique claimed the three-way tiebreaker on goal difference.
Group A action saw Canada sweep its matches with a 62:17 win over Trinidad and Tobago, a narrow 29:28 victory against Guadeloupe, and a 29:27 win over Mexico. Guadeloupe took second place in Group A following a 32:27 win over Mexico and a 65:19 victory against Trinidad and Tobago, leaving Mexico in third and Trinidad and Tobago in fourth.
Knockout Stage Decisions
The United States advanced to the final by defeating Guadeloupe 24:15 in the semi-finals behind a defensive performance. Martinique earned its spot in the title match by defeating Canada 31:22, after establishing a 4:1 lead within six minutes and a 18:9 advantage at halftime. In the bronze medal match, Canada defeated Guadeloupe 37:27 to secure the final podium spot.
The final match featured multiple shifts in momentum. Martinique took an early 7:5 lead after 17 minutes before the United States responded with a 5:0 run directed by Jorge Gomez De Santiago to lead 13:9 at halftime. Martinique pressured the U.S. lead in the second half through goals from Mézyann Clamart and Miguel William. After the U.S. held a 23:20 advantage in the 50th minute, Martinique mounted a 3:0 run to tie the score. Gomez De Santiago scored the final two goals for the United States, finishing with 13 total goals in the match as the U.S. defense prevented a late score in the final four minutes.
World Championship Qualification
The tournament served as a qualification event for the 2027 IHF Men’s Youth World Championship, with the top two teams earning berths to the global competition. Because Martinique is an affiliated member of the IHF and ineligible for the World Championships, the United States and third-placed Canada will represent the North America and Caribbean region at the 2027 tournament.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.