Since the winter of 2010 in Aarhus and Herning, Montenegrin handball players have consistently participated in the European championships. They are now on the verge of qualifying for their eighth consecutive continental tournament, with clarity expected following their double encounter with their toughest group rival.

The “Lionesses” continue their qualification for EHF Euro 2024 with matches against Serbia, the first of which is scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday, 18:00) at “Kristalna dvorana” in Zrenjanin.

“I anticipate the most challenging match in our group, as we face the best rival—Serbia has repeatedly demonstrated its excellence and fights relentlessly throughout the entire 60 minutes… I expect a demanding match, exciting handball, and a vibrant atmosphere,” stated Itana Grbić, the center back for Montenegro.

The Lionesses commenced the qualifiers with two wins over Bulgaria and Turkey, while Serbia settled for a draw in Ankara (29:29).

“Serbia possesses several experienced players now stepping into key roles, such as Anđela Janjušević, Sanja Radosavljević, and Jovane Risović… The remaining team members are young and eager to prove themselves. We look forward to a packed audience and believe we will both enjoy playing in front of full stands,” Itana added.

The top two teams from Group 6 will qualify for the European Championship hosted by Hungary, Austria, and Switzerland, while the third-place team may potentially secure a ticket to Euro.

“There are no calculations—let’s aim for two points,” Itana stated decisively.

The rematch against Serbia will take place on Sunday at the “Bemax Arena” (18:00), with team member Bojana Popović looking forward to significant matches in April—the qualification tournament for the Olympic Games, taking place in Ulm.

“Honestly, we aren’t focusing on Olympic qualifications at this moment. It’s crucial that we maximize our points from these two matches and use them as preparation for what’s to come,” said the player from Slovenian Crimea.

Armel is embraced warmly by the team

Armel Atingre, the new goalkeeper for the “lionesses,” is set to make her debut for Montenegro in Zrenjanin.

“She has been with us for years, and we know her very well… We are thrilled, and she understands how well we have welcomed her. It’s certain that she will be a significant asset for us,” Itana explained.

Mugoša: Our focus is solely on Serbia, as it will be in Ulm

The topic of qualifying for the Olympic Games is hard to ignore, but national team winger, Dijana Mugoš, emphasizes that at present, all the “lionesses” are fully concentrated on the European Championship qualification.

“The qualifiers are happening now, and our focus is entirely on them. Once this concludes, we will shift our attention to the Olympic Games qualifications. We are fully committed to this just as we are right now,” Dijana asserted.

GROUP 6

Today

17:00 Bulgaria – Turkey

Thursday

18:00 Serbia – Montenegro

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