The intimidating atmosphere that has often overwhelmed handball titans did not intimidate the underdogs, especially with a bewildered and unrecognizable Montenegro facing Italy.

The rout that began across the Adriatic was finalized in the nearly impenetrable “Morača” arena. The “lions” not only failed to erode Italy’s advantage from the first match (32:26), but they also suffered another defeat from a team that, while far from being the world’s best, is clearly ahead of them at present.

After a six-goal deficit in Konversan, the Montenegrin handball team faced another loss in Podgorica – 34:32. The time-out called by the former coach Vlado Šola just half a minute before the end illustrated the confusion of the “lions” since his tenure began.

– It’s straightforward – Italy outperformed us in both matches, demonstrating superiority in both defense and attack – commented Šola.

Having competed in three major tournaments consecutively, Montenegrin handball players will be sidelined for next January’s showcase event, with the next tournament being the 2026 European Championship potentially feeling like an eternity for this generation.

– Our only option is to unite, collaborate to improve in the future, rectify mistakes, and find our way back onto the right track – emphasized Luka Radović, who was among the standout players in the second match.

LACK OF STRATEGY, DEFENSIVE SHORTCOMINGS, LACK OF DESIRE…

Similar to Konversan, the “lions” entered the game devoid of an offensive strategy and without adequate defense against the swift backs of the “azzurri” (primarily Giacomo Savini and Simone Megnon), who effortlessly breached Montenegro’s defensive setup repeatedly.

Rather than seeing Italy’s lead from the first match diminish as the fans rallied, the visiting team’s advantage grew instead.

When Vlado Šola’s squad managed to draw closer, at 12:11 in the 23rd minute of the first half, the team led by Ricardo Trillini quickly quelled any hopes, leaving the scoreboard reading Italy +4 (17:13) by halftime, totaling a 10-goal disadvantage for Montenegro.

– It seemed that Italy had a stronger desire to qualify for the World Cup than we did – we did not showcase our true potential in either match – added Radović.

APPLAUSE FOR THE PLAYERS

The same narrative persisted in the second half. Montenegro’s last opportunity to possibly change the game came in the 49th minute when Aleksandar Bakić shot to make it 27:26. Unfortunately, during the next possession, Branko Vujović, our team’s brightest star, turned the ball over when a chance to level was at hand.

Even in those crucial moments, the Italians maintained their composure as if they’d participated in numerous high-stakes competitions. They had been eagerly awaiting this qualification since 1998 and celebrated their success right in Podgorica.

Disappointment was palpable; Šola exited the field with his head down as some fans called for his resignation, while the players remained to receive applause from the supporters.

– The atmosphere was fantastic, but it cannot win the game alone – remarked Šola.

– I regret having let the fans down – said Radović and added:

– You only get this experience once; it’s what we live for – an incredible moment that every child dreams of when they begin their journey in sports.

With Šola resigning, the legendary pivot Nemanja Grbović bid farewell sadly, leaving the remaining players and ongoing issues behind. The Handball Association must now find the right coach, especially since it’s clear that the decline began just before the Croatian expert’s arrival, notably during the 2023 World Championship.

The coach has left, but the problems remain

Immediately following the match, Vlado Šola accepted responsibility and made the anticipated yet heartfelt decision to step down from his role as coach.

– I commend the players and accept responsibility for everything… Every misstep falls on my shoulders. I am resigning immediately, and I apologize if I disappointed the handball community in Montenegro – stated Šola.

He further offered an intriguing comment…

– I won’t suggest that anyone acted maliciously or didn’t try their best. I won’t pinpoint who performed well or poorly; that’s all on me, and I bear the responsibility. Successes and failures are part of sports. This one is a failure, particularly on my part – added Šola.

The Croatian coach took full accountability for the team’s downfall. Still, it’s evident that those who appointed him also share the blame, having misjudged who could best nurture this promising generation that previously excelled at the 2022 European Championship, and is now overshadowed even by Italy.

MONTENEGRO – ITALY 32:34 (13:17)

Podgorica – “Morača” Hall. Attendance: 5,300. Referees: D. Akoto-Martinš and R. Akoto-Martinš (Portugal). Penalties: Italy 4 (3). Exclusions: Montenegro 8, Italy 6 minutes. Red card: Kaluđerović (Montenegro) in the 39th minute.

Montenegro: Matović (four saves and seven goals), Simić (two saves), A. Bakić 3, Dragašević 1, M. Vujović 1, Čavor 2, Lazović, Ćorsović 2, B. Vujović 5, M. Radović, Kaluđerović 2, L. Radović 6, Krivokapić 1, M. Bakić, Borozan 5, Grbović 4.

Italy: Ebner (10 saves), Colleluori (one save), De Angelis, Dapiran 1, Bulcamini 1, Savini 6, M. Mengon 1, Bronco 8 (1), S. Mengon 8, Ibali, Bortoli 1, Puljeze, Manojlović, Helmerson 2 (2), Morocco, Parisini 6.

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