Germany's handball national team defeated Norway 30:28 at the 2026 EM in Herning, remaining atop their main round group. Goalkeeper Andreas Wolff saved 23 shots, and Marko Grgic shone with seven goals. The win keeps the semifinal dream alive.
In Herning's Jyske Bank Boxen, the German Handball Federation (DHB) team under coach Alfred Gislason secured a narrow but deserved 30:28 (15:17) win over Norway before over 10,000 spectators. After a sluggish start with Germany trailing 3:7 early, goalkeeper Andreas Wolff kept the side in contention. The 34-year-old from Kiel stopped 23 shots, including tough attempts from Norway's star Sander Sagosen.
Coach Gislason praised Wolff as 'phenomenal.' The offense lacked precision in the first half, marred by missed throws and turnovers. After halftime, the team turned it around: Franz Semper invigorated play with four goals, and Marko Grgic netted seven from nine attempts. 'Alfred told me in the break that the team needed me more than ever,' said the 22-year-old Flensburg player Grgic.
A highlight was the family duel: Germany's Rune Dahmke faced his brother-in-law Sagosen. Dahmke was pleased with the win but noted: 'Without Andi, it would have looked different.' Norway's Sagosen was disappointed: 'Wolff is the difference.'
With six points, Germany leads ahead of Denmark and France (four each). Next challenges: Denmark on Monday and France on Wednesday. The victory ensures at least third place and the match for fifth.
