The disappointing performance in Konversan was not just a fluke; the Montenegrin handball players struggled in the World Championship play-off rematch, with Italy triumphing 34:32 in “Morača” and rightfully qualifying for the World Cup.

The “Lions” faced persistent issues, appearing disoriented in two matches when they were expected to outshine their Italian opponents.

Thursday’s game in Italy signaled trouble, and today was no different, as Vlad Šola’s team failed to find their rhythm, making it unlikely for the rivals to worry about their chances of remaining undefeated since their last championship in 1998.

It’s clear: Montenegro faltered in crucial matches for World Cup qualification, leaving even the packed “Morača” crowd dissatisfied.

Support for the players was evident even post-elimination, but the coach was met with chants of “Šola, leave.”

Luka Radović led the Montenegrin squad with six goals, followed by Branko Vujović and Vuko Borozan with five each, while Nemanja Grbović scored one before departing from the national team.

Italy’s Simone Mengon and Umberto Bronco each netted eight goals, with Giacomo Savini contributing two.

End of game: Montenegro suffered another loss to Italy in this rematch (34:32), marking a disappointing outing and earning themselves a missed opportunity at the World Championship.

Conversely, the Italians are heading to their first major event since 1998, when they participated in the European Championship.

The fans expressed their feelings after the game by chanting: “Šola, leave,” sending a clear message to the legendary Croatian goalkeeper and the Handball Association of Montenegro.

Timeout by Šola, accompanied by boos from the crowd.

The “Lions” are now attempting to avoid defeat, with the score at 30:29 in favor of Italy.

Italy has seemingly secured their spot at the World Cup.

With less than seven minutes left, Montenegro’s chances of a comeback are dwindling—Italy is ahead 29:27.

A rapid three-goal streak from our team brings them within one at 27:26, with just under 11 minutes remaining.

Italy has called for a timeout, while the “Lions” need to secure a victory by at least six goals.

Italy responds swiftly, once again leading by three at 27:24.

A 3:0 run for Montenegro narrows it down to a two-point deficit—25:23—after Čavor scored with his signature style.

Branko Vujović and Grbović score, cutting Italy’s lead to 25:22 with just over 15 minutes left.

The path to the World Cup seems bleak; Italy maintains a comfortable lead at 25:20 after their victory of 32:26 in the first match.

Simic returns to goal; Italy leads 22:20.

Ćorsović executed an excellent counterattack, bringing the score to 21:19.

A red card was given to Vasilij Kaluđerović for a rough foul on Mengon. Montenegro now faces an even tougher challenge without an essential player.

Five minutes later, Montenegro trails Italy 19:17, following goals from Branko Vujović and Grbović.

Aleksandar Bakić opened the scoring in the second half, reducing the deficit to 17:14, but Helmerson quickly countered, making it 14:18.

The second half has commenced, with Montenegro down 17:13.

Half time: Montenegro finds themselves in deep trouble as the crowd expresses their discontent after 30 minutes, with Italy leading 17:13.

Our team was previously defeated 32:26 in the first leg.

Matović denied a seven-meter shot from Bronco, who then dove to score, showing that the Italians are determined to win and claim their World Cup spot more than Montenegro desires it.

The “Azzurri” lead 16:13 in the final minute of the first half.

Kaluđerović narrowed the score to 14:13, while Branko Vujović defended a goal before Mengon made it 15:13.