Sweden's handball team suffered its first EM loss in a crushing 27-35 defeat to Iceland at Malmö Arena. Despite the shocking setback, Sweden still controls its own fate for a semifinal spot. Four teams are now tied on four points in the crucial group.
Sweden's handball men, who had previously beaten the Netherlands, Georgia, Croatia, and Slovenia, faced a strong Iceland in Sunday's match in Malmö. After a nightmare first half, it was 12-18 at halftime, with Sweden in trouble due to sloppiness and weak duels. Felix Claar started poorly with an early ejection and injury, while goalkeeper Nikola Roganovic missed penalties.
In the second half, there was a turnaround. Andreas Palicka, replacing Mikael Appelgren and marking his 41st EM match (a new record), made several saves and rallied the crowd. Sweden closed to 21-22 after four straight goals but couldn't sustain the momentum. Iceland pulled away again, and coach Michael Apelgren called timeout at a 28-24 deficit. The final score was 27-35 in front of 9,643 spectators.
'– It's way too bad', Albin Lagergren told Viaplay. Lukas Sandell described emptiness: '– I'm disappointed and empty. And don't know what to say.' Captain Palicka praised Iceland: '– A well-deserved win.' Coach Apelgren highlighted the duel play as the key to the loss.
The defeat intensified the main round battle. Now Sweden, Iceland, Slovenia, and Croatia (who won 28-24 against Switzerland) share four points, all with one loss. Sweden holds head-to-head advantages over Croatia and Slovenia and will reach the semis with wins against Hungary (Tuesday) and Switzerland (Wednesday). The semifinals are in Herning, Denmark, on Friday. Axel Månsson and Fabian Norsten were out of the squad.
