Sweden's handball team defeated Brazil 33-24 in the second pre-EM match in Partille, but the game was overshadowed by a facial injury to goalkeeper Andreas Palicka. Palicka was hit by a shot to the face just five minutes into the second half and was taken to hospital. Coach Michael Apelgren expressed concern for the team captain's condition.
Sweden's handball team wrapped up EM preparations with a convincing win over Brazil, 33-24 (17-11), in Partille on Wednesday. It was the second training match ahead of the home EM in Malmö, following a 34-27 victory in Jönköping on Monday. The game featured strong performances from the outfield players, especially Lukas Sandell who scored eight goals.
Goalkeeper Mikael Appelgren started in goal and delivered a solid performance in his 103rd international match, suggesting he may be the first-choice keeper for the EM. After halftime, he was replaced by team captain Andreas Palicka, 39. But just over five minutes into the second half, Palicka was struck by a Brazilian shot straight to the face, hitting his nose and left eye. He suffered a nosebleed, lost his contact lens, and had to leave the court.
The handball team stated that Palicka was examined by doctors, and shortly after the match, he was reported to have been taken to hospital for a check on his left eye. Coach Michael Apelgren commented: "He is our captain and has been the DNA of this team for many years. He is an extremely important leader for us and we are keeping our fingers crossed, of course. It's the only thing that doesn't feel so good today."
Despite the injury, the mood was positive. Sandell told SVT: "It's a good feeling that we're bringing to the championship." Apelgren agreed: "It was a very good match, we did some great things today. It feels good that we have a foundation to lean on now."
Sweden opens the EM on January 17 against the Netherlands in Malmö.
