“Last-Minute Drama: Karabatić Shatters Egyptian Hopes in Thrilling Quarterfinal”
Victory celebration in Zagreb, Photo: Reuters
The inaugural quarter-final day of the World Championship in Zagreb showcased the thrilling essence of handball, filled with drama, nail-biting finishes, joy, and heartache.
After Croatia overcame a four-point deficit in the final five and a half minutes to defeat Hungary (31:30), a similar suspense unfolded in the second match between France and Egypt, culminating in a last-second victory from Luka Karabatić – 34:33.
The “tricolor” pivot netted the decisive goal from the center with mere seconds remaining, shattering the dreams of the Egyptian team, who hadn’t advanced to the World Cup semi-finals in 24 years.
Jahija Omar had tied the score at 33:33 just five seconds before the conclusion, creating an expectation of overtime…
However, the French swiftly transferred the ball to Karabatic, who managed to score before the Egyptian goalkeeper could adjust following the seven-man attack.
The European champions continue their quest for the world title, set to face their longtime rivals, Croatia, in the semifinals.
The remaining two quarter-final matches are scheduled for tomorrow in Berum, a suburb of Oslo, featuring Denmark vs. Brazil (5:30 PM) and Portugal vs. Germany (8:00 PM).
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