With just two weeks remaining until the fourth Olympic Games, Montenegrin handball players have commenced their preparations for what promises to be a pivotal year, especially regarding the Tokyo 2021 Games.

The Lionesses have convened in Podgorica, with plans to complete their qualification for the European Championship by April 14, having already secured their spot, alongside the tournament in Ulm, where they aim to clinch two tickets to the Olympic Games.

“We understand the significance of our current situation and recognize the challenges ahead… This week serves as a pivotal preparation for what lies in Ulm,” stated coach Bojana Popović in today’s briefing.

On Wednesday at 15:00, her team will face Turkey in Rize, followed by a match against Bulgaria in Podgorica on Sunday. The journey to Paris kicks off on April 1 with a game against Paraguay. Competing in Ulm alongside the Lionesses will be hosts Germany and Slovenia, led by our own Dragan Adžić. The top two teams will progress in this new Olympic narrative.

“Those who lack belief, vision, and dreams have no place here. I have unwavering faith; this team has immense potential. After all these years, many of the players have matured, and now is the right moment for this generation,” Bojana asserts.

Upcoming Pre-Olympic Matches

Montenegro – Paraguay, April 11 (20:15)

Montenegro – Germany, April 13 (14:15)

Montenegro – Slovenia, April 14 (16:00)

The Montenegrin handball team has only missed the Games in Beijing 2008, and they are determined to maintain their streak in Paris.

“Qualifying for the Olympic Games once again would be a tremendous accomplishment. Simply qualifying from a small nation like Montenegro feels like a medal in itself. Competing among the 12 best teams is genuinely significant,” Bojana believes.

Pre-Ulm Training: Three Sessions and Two Matches

Having already secured their place in the European Championship, the matches against Turkey and Bulgaria serve as excellent preparation for the Olympic qualifications.

“We have recently faced Serbia and the World Cup, and this week, inclusive of travel, we have arranged three training sessions and two matches to establish a solid foundation for competition against Germany and Slovenia,” the Montenegrin coach remarked.

While a more extended preparation would have been ideal, the current circumstances are certainly better than prior to previous Games.

“In the past, qualification matches for the Olympics were frequently played just days after we gathered, making every game invaluable. Naturally, we won’t reveal our entire strategy during these matches, as our goal is to conserve some tactics for Ulm.”

The legendary handball player hopes her team will approach the German city on the Danube without undue pressure.

“I want the players to engage fully without excessive expectations, as that can hinder performance. Staying healthy is also crucial. They recognize their roles, we all aspire for Paris, and we sincerely dream of achieving that goal.”

Injuries and Rotation Challenges

This time, challenges have also arisen…

“It appears that Đurđina Malović has a torn ligament, while Nina Bulatović is recovering…” Bojana highlighted.

There is also a concern over Ivan Godeč.

“She has had an outstanding season, showcasing remarkable potential at the World Cup, and her absence is significant. However, if we find room for rotation, Tatjana Brnović—who is a consistent player—and the other girls will definitely make the most of the opportunities presented to them.”

In terms of rotations, Bojana Popović will need to get creative with the backs, as they essentially carried the previous match against Serbia: Matea Pletikosic, Jelena Despotović, and Itana Grbić.

“The rotation situation is what it is; we are gearing up for competitive matches. Other rotations exist, and we’re committed to finding effective solutions,” concluded Bojana.

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