Montenegro takes on Romania once again, two years after their exciting encounter in Skopje, where “Lice” celebrated three victories at “Morača”. Kristin Neag secured a win in the “Boris Trajkovski” hall (35:34), propelling them into the semi-finals of the European Championship.

On December 1st of this year, while the stakes aren’t as high, a victory over the Romanian side would nearly guarantee a spot in the main round of the EHF Euro 2024.

Following a commanding win against Serbia (24:18), Montenegro’s next match is scheduled for 18:00 in Debrecen.

– The match against Romania is now our top priority – stated Marta Batinović from northeastern Hungary.

Neagu and Pintea are no longer a menace, but…

In the previous match held in Skopje, Romania was still bolstered by the legendary figures of handball, Neagu and Krina Pintea. However, this time they will be absent from the “Feniks Arena”, though some promising new talents demonstrated their potential against the Czech Republic in their opening game.

– They have reshuffled their lineup; though Neagu and Pintea are gone, young players have emerged eager to prove themselves, and in the first round, they showcased their character by coming back from a six-goal deficit against the Czech Republic. It won’t be an easy contest, but I’m confident that we will bring high energy and secure the win – emphasized our goalkeeper.

Similar to the match against Serbia, Montenegro shouldn’t encounter any unexpected challenges with Romania, considering that several Montenegrin players are competing in the Romanian league, including our two goalkeepers, Marta Batinović and Marina Rajcic, who play for Magur Ćisnadija.

– We know each other quite well, and many girls are familiar with their league. Nevertheless, I am certain we will win because I believe our character is unmatched – asserted Marta.

Strategies to Halt Gina

Montenegro kicked off the EHF Euro with a strong defense led by the impressive Đurđina Jauković. A similar strategy could be effective against Romania as well.

– Our defense must remain consistent, as it was against Serbia. We need to refine certain aspects of our offense, but with that focus, I am sure victory will follow – remarked Diana Mugoš, a left winger on our national team.

Đurđina Jauković marked her opening in the European Championship with an outstanding 11 goals.

– Their coach (Florentine Pera) is well-acquainted with the Romanian league… He analyzes opponents thoroughly and will aim to contain Gina, but this could create openings for the rest of us, and I believe we will capitalize on those chances – mentioned another “lioness” who plays in Romania, where she represents Gloria.

Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the main round, highlighting the significance of a victory over Romania.

– While this game is essential, we feel no pressure. We approach it one match at a time, as we have since the start of the championship – noted Dijana.

Defense Remains Key

The defensive structure established by Suzana Lazović against Serbia demonstrated how challenging it is to compete against Montenegro — indeed, their opponents scored only twice in the first 20 minutes.

– It was highly effective, so we need to maintain that focus on defense. If we stick to our defensive responsibilities, I am confident we will face no issues against Romania – stated Andrijana Tatar, who is making her debut at a major competition.

Andrijana plays as a pivot in Romania for Baja Mare, and she knows today’s rival quite well…

– They have significantly refreshed their lineup, but the younger players are hungry to make their mark, and they fight hard… It will be tough, but I insists, if our defense mirrors its performance against Serbia, we will not encounter problems – concluded Andrijana.

Milena’s Possible Contribution in the Main Round

Milena Raičević’s injury has slightly overshadowed the triumph over Serbia. Nevertheless, the Handball Association of Montenegro has indicated that her injury isn’t severe. However, she will require a two-week recovery period, causing her to miss the matches against Romania and the Czech Republic. The Federation assures that the medical team is working diligently to expedite her return.

– Our medical team is already taking steps to ensure Milena Raičević recovers quickly, aiming for her to aid the “lionesses” if we qualify for the main round, where another four matches await us in Debrecen – concluded a spokesperson for RSCG.

Pera: We Will Fight for 60 Minutes

The rejuvenated Romanian team made an impressive start at the EHF Euro, winning against the Czech Republic (29:28) despite facing significant deficits during the match. However, they know the challenge will be tougher against Montenegro.

– Montenegro possesses players with tremendous experience, many of whom compete in the Champions League. Conversely, we are younger, but faced a similar uphill struggle against the Czech Republic. It’s vital for us to maintain team spirit, energy, and to strive together for all 60 minutes to seize our opportunities – stated Florentin Pera, Romania’s coach.

EHF Euro, Group B

Today

Montenegro – Romania (18:00)

Serbia – Czech Republic (20:30)

Tuesday

Serbia – Romania (18:00)

Czech Republic – Montenegro (20:30)

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