To secure another January competing among the world’s leading teams, Montenegrin handball players must overcome a poor performance and a minus six from Konversano against Italy at 17:30 in “Morača”.

Miloš Vujović reiterated their determination, highlighting that he sustained an injury during the first leg of the World Cup playoff and will require surgery, but only after the rematch with the Italians.

“I underwent an MRI; the doctor confirmed a shoulder injury that requires surgery. However, I’m focusing solely on the game in front of our supporters and will play as if everything is normal. We need to win by seven points; the Italians owe us, and it’s time to settle that score,” Vujović stated.

As the rematch approaches, coach Vlado Šola expressed confidence that his team would be fully motivated against their opponents. Nonetheless, the match in Konversano tells a different story…

“We, the players, are at fault for our repeated mistakes when facing weaker teams, taking matches with a ‘we’ll handle this easily’ attitude. Now we have an important game ahead that we must win,” Vujović stressed.

The Gumerzbah handball player recalled previous experiences in the World Cup qualifiers.

“Indeed, Greece showed us that underestimating opponents can lead to defeats, as they beat us by three points. We previously celebrated with a ten-point advantage in the second leg in Podgorica, showing we are the stronger team. I hope we can replicate that success this time,” Vujović remarked.

However, the deficit from Konversano is more substantial than that from Athens.

“That’s true. We’re down by six points and facing immense pressure, which means we must approach the match with seriousness and focus,” he added.

The “lions” wing acknowledges the challenge of overcoming such a deficit.

“While it is indeed challenging and demanding, it is also an opportunity to defeat Italy by seven points in front of our fans. However, we are not shying away from our goal; we know we are favorites and must prove it. We all desire victory and to maintain our streak of competing in significant tournaments,” concluded Vujović.

Tonight’s match will be free for spectators and will serve as a special occasion as it marks the last game in a red jersey for one of the national team’s symbols, Nemanja Grbović.

“Morača” has historically claimed many giant victories; can it now support the lions in orchestrating a significant comeback against outsiders, paving the way to another major competition, making it the tenth since independence was restored?

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