THW Kiel has halted SC Magdeburg's winning streak in the Handball-Bundesliga. The Zebras came from a 10:12 halftime deficit to win 31:29 at home against the table leaders. Goalkeeper Gonzalo Pérez de Vargas was key to the victory.
In a thrilling top match of the Handball-Bundesliga, THW Kiel defeated the previously unbeaten SC Magdeburg 31:29. The game took place in the sold-out Wunderino Arena in Kiel, where fans loudly cheered every action. After a weak first half with a 10:12 deficit, Kiel scored the decisive goals in the second half to end the opponent's winning streak.
The home win brings THW Kiel crucial points in the battle for the top spots. Goalkeeper Gonzalo Pérez de Vargas was highlighted as the guarantor of success, with his saves helping to overcome the deficit. SC Magdeburg, unbeaten until now, suffered a defeat that tightens the table.
Before the game, the contract extension of line player Hendrik Pekeler until June 30, 2027, was announced. The 34-year-old, who returned after an Achilles tendon rupture in June 2025, stated: "I really want to continue being part of this great team." THW managing director Viktor Szilagyi praised Pekeler as a "pillar of our team" and emphasized his stability in defense.
Pekeler, who returned to Kiel in 2018, has won six German championships and other titles in his career. The victory over Magdeburg underscores THW Kiel's strength in the current season.