The journey that began 14 years ago in the chilly city of Aarhus continues this winter in Debrecen, as Montenegrin handball players prepare for the eighth European Championship in just nine days.

Two days prior, the Lionesses commenced their final preparations for the EHF Euro, which is being co-hosted by Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland. Before the intense competitions begin, they hold one significant wish.

– From our very first game, we aim to demonstrate our determination and spirit, embodying everything the “lionesses” have represented over the years – stated captain Milena Raičević, highlighting:

– We don’t want to place undue pressure on ourselves; we handled it well during our past achievements with major medals.

For Montenegro, always with heart

The first match for the squad led by Suzana Lazović will be against Serbia on November 29, followed by contests against Romania and the Czech Republic. Only the top two teams will progress to the main round, also taking place in Debrecen.

– Our group is balanced, and we are all familiar with each other. I believe that through training and match preparations, we will address and fine-tune our strategies for the championship. We promise to fight, and as we often say, we will leave our hearts on the field. The Lionesses have always done so, and I assure you it will be no different this time – added Milena.

The EHF Euro marks a comeback for the captain, who missed last year’s World Championship and Olympic qualification due to known issues regarding the “Future case.”

– The feeling is euphoric. Naturally, I’m excited; it’s been a while since I’ve been on the court. Whenever I play for the national team, I give my all, my heart. The lack of matches recently doesn’t deter me, as I always approach playing for my country with the same intensity – Raičević affirmed.

Possibly the last tournament, and perhaps a fourth medal

Milena has been part of the “lionesses” since nearly the beginning, having played in the aforementioned Euro 2010 in Denmark, experiencing both great triumphs and setbacks with the team. As her career approaches its twilight, this tournament may be her final appearance in the beloved national jersey.

– Every athlete nearing the end of their career aims to give their utmost, and I certainly share that desire. I’m uncertain how much I will play, but at this championship, I intend to give my all and showcase the energy I’ve carried throughout my career. Maybe this will be my last; perhaps it won’t. One can never tell – emphasized the captain.

And could a fourth medal be in store?

– Perhaps – replied the legendary handball player.

In the qualifying rounds leading up to the Euro, the Lionesses bested their first opponent, who awaits them in Debrecen, twice.

– Those two matches against Serbia were far from easy despite our victories, so careful preparations are essential. We are in a better shape now than we were then, but that doesn’t guarantee an easier game. We must focus intently on that rival – Milena asserted.

The same applies to the other teams.

– The same goes for the Romanian team; we recognize the strength of their league and their immense potential. Their roster has seen many changes, but we cannot assume it will be an easier contest. The Czech Republic is also always a wildcard, surprising everyone at every tournament. We do not wish to become part of that surprise – emphasized Raičević.

Our goal is to advance past the first round

Alongside Milena, the upcoming Euro will also see the return of Marta Batinović, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during last year’s World Cup.

– Unfortunately, I went through two surgeries: one in December and another at the start of July following a meniscus rupture after my initial repair. Having navigated that, I’m now here and feel joy. It was challenging, but I knew I would return, and I’m thrilled at the opportunity to compete in the European Championship again with my team – shared our goalkeeper.

Montenegro will boast a formidable goalkeeping lineup for the European Championship, with Marta, Marina Rajčić, and Armel Atingre all contributing.

– We are healthy, well-practiced, and experienced. The key is to maintain solid defense, as this simplifies our responsibilities. The more aggressive our players are upfront, the easier it becomes for us to make saves – Marta pointed out.

The Montenegrin goalkeeper recognizes that the Lionesses are facing a challenging group.

– There are no easy matches at the European Championships, as they are incredibly demanding competitions. We want to defeat Serbia first, then Romania, and subsequently face the Czech Republic. Our primary goal is to get past the first round and fight for greater achievements. We play for our country, and that is most vital – clarified Batinović.

Strange to see Suzana as the coach

Marta, like several other “lionesses,” is experiencing working with Suzana Lazović as a coach for the first time, having previously played alongside her as a teammate in Budućnost.

– It felt unusual when she transitioned to coaching since she was previously our teammate. However, we are all professionals and strive to perform to the best of our abilities, regardless of the role anyone occupies.

This tournament finds the Lionesses defending their bronze medal from the previous completion.

– We’re not going to dwell on that… Our approach is step by step. The key is winning the first game to build confidence. This team is young and has many promising years ahead, so passing the initial phase is essential – concluded Marta Batinović.

The Lionesses have traveled to Slovenia today, where they will compete in a test match against that nation’s team tomorrow.

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