After defeating Odense with a score of 33:17, the Buducnost Bemax handball team concluded their Champions League matches in Podgorica.

They will face Bittigheim in a week’s time, marking the end of one of the club’s most challenging seasons.

The team, already weakened, was missing three key players (Milena Raičević, Kalidijata Nijakate, and Noemi Hafra) since the start of the season and faced recent issues with illness as well.

This struggle was evident on the court; while the “blues” led 13:11 at the 26th minute, they managed to score just four more goals by the game’s end.

“We dealt with health issues, as three players had a virus, one was struggling with back pain, and Bojana also developed a fever. It was incredibly tough to finish this week; we had to adapt by doing some four-on-four and five-on-five training. Despite the challenges, the girls gave their all in the first half, and we can be pleased with that,” stated their 47-year-old coach from Beran.

However, in the second half, Odense’s superior physical condition became apparent.

“Having played in Denmark, I know how tough it is to keep pace with their team. We encountered numerous issues in the second half; it was hard for us to maintain our defense, and we struggled offensively. Whenever we made chances, we couldn’t convert, whereas Odense capitalized on nine transition opportunities,” she explained.

Despite the significant defeat, Savić found some positives.

“The virus had an impact, yet I’m proud of the girls for their efforts. While I’m disappointed with the scoreline, I appreciate their commitment and the approach they took. We demonstrated that when fully fit, we can compete with anyone in at least one half,” she noted.

Jelena Vukčević was the standout performer, scoring seven goals.

“We started the game confidently and energetically, doing our best to follow the game plan and keeping up with Odense. Unfortunately, everything faded in the second half. I feel upset about the outcome; we fought hard to prevent it,” said the 19-year-old from Podgorica.

Odense’s victory in Podgorica was even more convincing than their home game, which ended 39:24.

“We were anxious in the first half, but we played superb defense in the second, backed by an outstanding performance from our goalkeeper. I’m thrilled with the result and the team’s response, especially since we conceded over 40 goals mid-week, and now just 17,” shared Ole-Gustav Gjekstad, whose team recently lost to Ikast 43:35.

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