With record world champions France and debutants Italy, the first two nations have reached the main round of the handball world championship.
The French swept Kuwait 43:19 (21:8), Italy defeated Algeria 32:23 (19:13). Meanwhile, Spain, who came third in the Olympics and World Cup, also made a successful entry into the tournament.
In Porec, Croatia, Les Bleus were convincing and, like against Qatar (37:19), did not have to go to the limit. After an even opening phase, the six-time title holder made things clear early on with an 11-0 run. Against overwhelmed Kuwait, coach Guillaume Gille’s team was able to gain self-confidence and conserve the strength of the top stars.
Meanwhile, Italy, which is taking part in a final tournament for the first time in the 87-year history of the World Cup, had no problems with Algeria. Although Riccardo Trillini’s team did not manage a shooting festival like the French, they also celebrated their early entry into the main round with their second win in the second game. Co-hosts and favorites Denmark await in the final group game on Saturday (8:30 p.m./Sportdeutschland.TV).
Spain would also like to advance to the main round. The Olympic bronze medalist played his first tournament game in Oslo and started with a confident opening win in Group F. He scored 31:22 (17:13) against Chile. Slovenia celebrated an even greater victory, winning 41:19 (18:9) against Cuba.
The 29th Handball World Championship will take place in three countries for the first time this year. The 32 participants are divided into eight groups of four. The best three nations in each group come into one of the four main round groups with six teams each. The nations that come first or second in their main round advance to the quarter-finals and can dream of the final in Oslo (February 2nd).