November 2022 will be a memorable date for handball enthusiasts in Montenegro. During this time, the “lionesses” amazement in Ljubljana led to a historic victory against powerful France, earning the European bronze medal, which was celebrated in Podgorica as if it were the most prestigious award.

Fast forward a little over two years, and our handball players are gearing up for a new challenge, attempting to replicate their previous success. The complex journey towards the European Championship finals begins tonight at 20:30 in Debrecen, with a well-known adversary in Serbia, whom Montenegro last faced in February and March.

The kickoff of this major tournament can significantly influence its progression, and Suzana Lazović, who makes her debut on the coaching bench after taking over from Bojana Popović three months ago, is well aware of this. Following Montenegro’s failure to qualify for the Paris Olympics, this national team is on a fresh path—infused with new energy both on and off the court…

– We are excited for the championship to commence – states goalkeeper Marina Rajčić.

– We are up against Serbia, a team we have faced twice in the qualifiers, and we know what to expect.

“THE RIGHT THINGS HAPPEN AT THE RIGHT TIME”

Montenegro triumphed in both encounters against Serbia during the Euro qualifiers, winning by narrow margins in Zrenjanin and Podgorica. Our team has grown stronger since those matches, but tonight’s contest carries much greater significance.

– I have played alongside several players from Serbia in clubs and understand their quality. They are coached by Uroš Bregar, and the opening match of the championship will undoubtedly be challenging. However, we will approach every match as if it were a final – Rajčić emphasized.

Montenegro aspires to secure a medal, with hopes high that the outcome parallels that of 2022.

– I always believe in success and would never compete if I didn’t hold that belief. Although the results don’t always align, the right things have consistently happened at the right time. I hope it will be the same this time around – expressed Marina Rajčić.

KATARINA READY FOR A SIGNIFICANT COMEBACK

Expectations are high for Katarina Džaferović to shine in her national team jersey after overcoming numerous injuries.

– I’ve dedicated my entire recovery to this goal—the ultimate reward is participating in the European Championship. I’m doing my best to manage my emotions and not let the excitement overwhelm me, as it’s been three years since I was part of the national team. I can hardly wait for the tournament to commence – stated the defender of Romanian Craiova.

This time, Montenegro benefits from the return of Milena Raičević and Đurđina Jauković, while Jelena Radivojević is absent for personal reasons. As such, Suzana Lazović has added pivot player Nikolina Vukčević to the roster from the start of preparations.

– I don’t believe any player doubts our abilities and potential achievements together. I have faith in the girls and the coaching staff and hope our efforts will bear fruit – added Katarina.

She anticipates minimal surprises between the Montenegrin and Serbian handball squads.

– I’m quite eager for the first match. Many of us compete alongside Serbian players, with two being my teammates. We know each other well, and the wiser team will come out on top – concluded Kaća Džaferović.

The group also includes Romania and the Czech Republic, with the top two teams advancing to the main round. Montenegro will face Romania in the second round on Sunday at 18:20, followed by a matchup with the Czech Republic on Tuesday at 20:30.

In the other first-round match of our Group B, Romania will play the Czech Republic at 18:00.

BREGAR: WE KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT MONTENEGRO

Serbian handball athletes share the same goal as Montenegro—to start the championship on the right foot.

Serbian coach Uroš Bregar acknowledges his familiarity with our team, highlighting the significance of Milena Raičević and Đurđina Jauković returning to the squad.

– Their return poses a challenge for us due to their experience. However, we aim to surprise with tactical changes that differ from expectations – said Bregar.

It is certain that an intense battle awaits in Debrecen.

– We anticipate an open match and believe it’s crucial to kick off the European Championship with a victory. We know all there is to know about Montenegro, but that does not lead us to underestimate them—not at all. In our two qualifying encounters, we lost narrowly, and I hope we can perform better now, along with having some luck on our side – remarked the Slovenian coach.

Captain Jovana Risović has no doubts:

– A stronger defense and minimizing technical errors will be determining factors – said the Serbian goalkeeper.

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