The handball players of the Füchse Berlin kept their chance of direct quarter-final qualification in the Champions League.
In the penultimate group game, the Bundesliga club won in front of 5,925 spectators in the Max-Schmeling-Halle against the North Macedonian champion HC Eurofarm Pelister with 39:29 (15:12). The foxes climb in third place, but only the two first places come directly into the round of the last eight. The best Berlin launchers were Matthes Langhoff and Mathias Gidsel with nine goals each.
Coach Jaron Siewert had to do without world champion Lasse Andersson again, and new international Tim Freihofer also failed. Lasse Ludwig started in the goal, who was also able to shine with a few parades. On the offensive, however, the hosts needed something to get going. The first goal was only scored after four minutes.
Short weakness after the change of sides
But that seemed to be the wake-up call, because the goal was the start of a 7-0 run. With the early clear leadership (7: 1) in the back, the hosts took it a little more relaxed and gave some chances. However, the Berliners also changed early and gave regular forces longer breaks.
The reckless exploitation of opportunities ensured that the lead shrank to two goals after the change of sides (19:17). But the Berliners caught again quickly and answered with a 5: 1 run. And then the foxes had the game completely under control until the end and were also able to protect players.