Focusing on Hungary, Austria, and Switzerland, the Montenegrin handball players are advancing in their qualification for the European Championship with a crucial double match against Serbia, which will serve as an important test ahead of the Olympic qualifications in April.

The Lionesses are set for their first match against Serbia at “Kristalna Dvorana” in Zrenjanin on Thursday (18:00), followed by a rematch three days later (18:00) at the “Bemax Arena” in Podgorica.

Bojana Popović’s squad has a clear objective.

“We are determined to secure two points both away and at home — that’s vital for us,” emphasized Jelena Despotović, a defender for Montenegro.

Tatjana Brnović echoed a similar sentiment.

“Our goal is to win two points — first in Zrenjanin, and then at home. We can consider ourselves favorites against Serbia, and it’s our responsibility to uphold that status,” stated the Montenegrin center.

The opponent is well-known…

“Serbia is a strong national team; they demonstrated their quality at the European Championship, where they held up against top teams like Denmark and Germany. With the match taking place on their home ground, we will need to maintain utmost focus and fighting spirit from start to finish. A win is our goal,” stressed Jelena Despotović.

Montenegro placed seventh in the last major competition, the World Cup in Scandinavia, while Serbia finished in 21st.

“We face two serious matches against a familiar opponent — everything is viewed through the lens of victory or defeat. For us, winning is essential; there are no other motives,” asserts Tatjana Brnović.

Qualification for the Olympic Games cannot be overlooked at this juncture.

“This feels like a final preparation for the tournament in April. The Olympic Games are an aspiration for every athlete — as cliché as that may sound. We are focused on that goal, though these matches hold their own significance,” urges Tatjana.

During the tournament in Ulm, the “lions” will encounter host Germany, Slovenia (coached by our Dragan Adžić), and Paraguay — the top two teams will earn a spot at the Paris Games.

“We understand what lies ahead in April, so we are making the most of every moment we have together,” concluded Jelena.

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