“A Game Filled with Strength: Confident Defense Will Lead Us to Victory Over Slovenia—5-1 or 6-0!”
When the attack suffers for over 40 minutes, even a solid defense can’t save the day – Montenegrin handball players faced a heavy defeat against Germany (2:28) in the 24th round of Olympic Games qualification today.
“We knew from the beginning that it would be a tough match. Thanks to our strong defense, we managed to achieve a 4:3 lead, but our attack had its moments of inconsistency, and when we did have clear chances, we failed to convert them. Numerous missed shots from the wide right side hindered us,” remarked coach Bojana Popović after the game.
Only towards the end, after Germany established a ten-goal lead, did the “lionesses” begin to find their scoring touch.
“In the last 20 minutes, we found some stability in our attack, which improved the scoreline. I’m pleased with the defensive efforts the girls displayed, as well as their determination and commitment until the final whistle,” Bojana stated.
The next challenge is a critical game against Slovenia tomorrow at 16:00. The victor of this match will secure a spot at the Olympics.
“This game was valuable in preparing us for the match with Slovenia – it allowed the girls to experience the intensity of defensive play. We need to recover and get ready for tomorrow,” Bojana emphasized.
Even before this tournament began, it was understood that the match against Dragan Adžić’s team would be pivotal.
“Whether we had won today or drawn, we knew that we had to secure a victory against Slovenia in the final round – that one match is essential for our Olympic ambitions,” Popović stressed.
She reiterated her thoughts on the game against Germany.
“I’m glad we had this match, where the girls could see and experience various elements of play and understand the kind of real opponent they will face tomorrow.”
Certain strategies from this match will be pivotal for Montenegrin coach as they plan for Slovenia.
“The confidence from the last 20 minutes and the first fifteen, especially in defense, is promising. Whether employing a 5-1 or 6-0 defensive setup, I can see that the players feel secure and empowered in that system, so we will aim to replicate that in our match against Slovenia to achieve the desired outcome,” concluded Bojana.
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