Germany's women's handball team lost the world championship final in Rotterdam to Norway 20:23, securing silver. It marks their first medal since 2007. Both teams had advanced undefeated.
In a thrilling world championship handball final, Germany's women's team fell to the Norwegian Olympic champions 20:23. The match in Rotterdam's Ahoy Arena was decided only shortly before the end. The DHB squad celebrates its first medal since the 2007 world bronze; the last title came in 1993, preceded by three DDR victories from 1971 to 1978.
Germany had ousted the defending French champions in the semi-final and reached the final undefeated. The duel delivered top-class action from the outset: After eight minutes, the Germans led 7:5, with goalkeeper Katharina Filter shining as against France. Norway's 45-year-old Katrine Lunde blocked nearly half of all shots in the prior eight games and here prevented a three-goal deficit.
At 9:9, Germany killed their first power play without conceding. Halftime arrived tied at 11:11. Post-break, coach Markus Gaugisch's team started rushed; Norway surged to 15:12, prompting a timeout. Goals from Emily Vogel, Alina Grijseels, and Viola Leuchter fueled the comeback: 16:17 with 15 minutes left. Nieke Kühne leveled it, thrilling the crowd with every stop.
Two-time world player Henny Reistad found her groove for Norway. Filter saved a penalty at 19:20, but Lunde responded masterfully. With 2.5 minutes remaining, Norway's three-goal lead sealed the outcome. The Germans displayed resilience, yet the Scandinavians' experience prevailed.
