After the Czech Republic had levelled the score at 28-28 a minute from time through Ondrej Zdrahala, they appeared to have claimed the trophy in Lusail with a final goal.

But goal-line technology ruled the ball had not crossed the line before the final buzzer went, so the tied match went to penalties.

Although the Belarus keeper Vitali Charapenka put his side in initial control by saving his first shot, the experienced Czech keeper Petr Stochl showed his mettle as he blocked two efforts to give his side a 4-3 winning margin which enabled Jicha - who missed two of the opening qualifying matches through illness - to claim the silverware.

Two crucial saves by the Czech Republic's keeper Petr Stochl helped his side win the President's Cup at the Qatar World Handball Championships with a 32-31 win over Belarus ©Getty Images

The Czech Republic were the first European winners of the President's Cup since Spain, currently defending world champions, in 2009.

Russia beat Bosnia and Herzgovina 42-28 for 19th place.

Debutants Iran earned a 26-22 win over Saudi Arabia in the match for 21st place, while 23rd place went to Chile, who beat African champions Algeria 30-28 after penalties.

Meanwhile, Sheikha Asmaa Thani Al Thani, head of marketing and communications for the Championships, has spoken about Qatar 2015's success in engaging with families and young people, saying the event has been "a huge step" for the country.

"We've had everyone at the venues - mums, dads, kids and grandparents," she told the International Handball Federation.

"It's been great to have such a muliticultural mix of people enjoying the matches together.

"It's created a wonderful atmosphere for everyone."

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