Slovenia had a minimal chance of reaching the semi-finals at the European Handball Championships in Germany. The Slovenians won against the already failed Netherlands in Group II on Sunday (January 21, 2024) in Hamburg 37:34 (19:13), but their fate in the tournament depends heavily on the other results in the evening.
At half-time, Slovenia seemed to have already taken a decisive lead against the defensively weak Dutch team. But the opponent, who was still pointless, fought his way back, thanks in particular to a total of 15 goals from the outstanding Bundesliga professional Niels Versteijnen (TBV Lemgo). Slovenia had a much broader base and ended up with three throwers with six goals each.
Sweden is close to the semi-finals
European handball champion Sweden is very close to reaching the European Championship semi-finals again. The defending champions defeated Portugal in Group II of the main round on Sunday in Hamburg with 40:33 (19:15) and could secure their place in the last four that evening if Norway does not win against the top favorites Denmark.
The outstanding player for the Swedes was Lucas Pellas from Montpellier HB, whose total of ten goals repeatedly kept the Portuguese at a reassuring distance. This never threatened victory. Martim Costa (Sporting Lisbon) countered with eight goals.