“Sensation in Mannheim: Montenegrin Roots Guy Returns to Spain; Main Round Groups Finalized”
Božović (number seven) and the Austrian team celebrate in Mannheim, Photo: Handball AUSTRIA
After reaching six consecutive semi-finals, four finals, and securing two European titles, Spain’s handball team faced elimination in Germany.
Astonishing developments in Mannheim as the “fury” bids farewell to the European Championship in the opening stage; Austria claims a significant draw (33:33) featuring Janko Božović, who has Montenegrin roots.
The son of the renowned Budućnost player Stanka Božović (née Mugoša), scored a crucial goal just nine seconds before the end, securing the draw and allowing Austria to advance to the second stage.
With this result, Austria progressed to the main stage of the European Championship for the fourth time in its history, their best performance being an eighth-place finish four years ago.
Accompanying Austria to the next round from this group is Croatia, as both teams secured a point each.
In the group of Montenegro, Hungary easily triumphed over Iceland (33:25). Following the victory of the “lions” against Serbia earlier in the day, these two teams will move on together, with Ceme Rodrigues’ team starting the new group with two points, while the “fishermen” begin with none.
There remains a hint of regret over Vuk Borozan’s missed opportunity against Iceland in the second round—had he scored, Montenegro would be celebrating their advancement tonight.
The evening at the Euro was highlighted by a major derby between Germany and France in Berlin, where the “tricolors” emerged victorious (33:30), earning two points.
The new phase kicks off tomorrow with matches in Group 2 in Berlin, where Denmark, Sweden, and Slovenia each have two points, while the Netherlands, Norway, and Portugal are yet to score.
The following day, a thrilling spectacle will unfold at the Lanakse Arena in Cologne, featuring Hungary and France with two points each, while Croatia and Austria have one point each, and Germany and Iceland start with zero.
GROUP 2
Wednesday
15:30 Norway – Portugal
18:00 Denmark – Netherlands
20:30 Slovenia – Sweden
GROUP 1
Thursday
France – Croatia
Germany – Iceland
Hungary – Austria
News