Germany's handballers have advanced to the EM main round with two points and face a group of death. First opponent on Thursday is Portugal, which sensationally beat Denmark. Matches against Norway, Denmark and France promise thrilling duels in Herning.
After the 34:32 victory over Spain, Germany's handballers have reached the European Championship main round and can breathe a sigh of relief. "We were close to disaster," said Renars Uscins, who convinced with eight goals against Spain and regained his form. The team showed improved offensive and defensive performances, praised by goalkeeper Andreas Wolff, who highlighted Justus Fischer as a strong replacement for captain Johannes Golla.
Portugal's sensational 31:29 win against host Denmark on Tuesday evening in Herning changes the main round schedule. Instead of Denmark, Germany now faces Portugal first, which, like the Germans and France, brings 2:0 points. Norway, Denmark, and Spain start without points. "A great performance by the Portuguese, that makes our main round group the absolute group of death," explained team manager Benjamin Chatton.
The schedule in the Jyske Bank Boxen: Thursday against Portugal at 15:30 (ARD), Saturday against Norway at 20:30 (ZDF), Monday against Denmark at 20:30 (ARD), and Wednesday against defending champions France at 18:00 (ZDF). The top two teams advance to the semifinals. The Spain game reached 7 million viewers with a 26.7 percent market share, pleasing TV broadcasters and the EHF. Ticket demand in Herning has risen; Saturday is sold out, remaining tickets from 199 euros available.
National coach Alfred Gislason is relieved: "I am very, very happy." He has accepted criticism and spoken with Juri Knorr, who praised the open approach. Injury updates: Rune Dahmke (calf) and Lukas Zerbe (cramp) will be available on Thursday, as confirmed by Chatton. ARD and ZDF secure EM rights until 2030.
