Montenegro is favored against Italy in the World Handball Championship play-off, but that advantage must be demonstrated on the court. This sentiment is echoed by “lions” captain Mirko Radović and goalkeeper Nebojša Simić as they prepare for the upcoming clashes with “Azure”.

Traveling from Tirana, Montenegro will head to Conversano tomorrow for the first playoff match on Thursday (20). The second leg is scheduled for Sunday at 17:30 in “Morača”.

RADOVIĆ: WE ARE AWARE OF OUR TEAM’S CAPABILITIES

Following a narrow victory against Serbia (30:29) in the last European Championship, the “lions” were drawn into the playoff from the top tier, avoiding stronger handball teams and setting up a match against Italy, where they aim to extend their presence in top-tier competitions.

“Our main objective is sustaining our streak in major tournaments. While on paper we are the favorites against Italy, it’s crucial we back that up on the field. We approach this game with utmost respect. Our preparation is thorough, and we have ample video material to analyze. Yet, we fully understand our identity and readiness to qualify for the World Cup,” expressed captain Mirko Radović.

Radović acknowledged the presence of positive pressure.

“There’s a positive pressure in representing the national team. It’s an honor. The players will surely feel relaxed, free from heavy expectations. We are committed to preparing thoroughly, then taking the field to execute our plan. While we respect the opponents, we also recognize the strength of our own team,” he remarked.

In regard to the second leg on Sunday, the captain anticipates an exciting atmosphere in “Morača”.

“Absolutely, we expect a thrilling match on Sunday. We’re looking forward to the fans coming out to support us. Playing in front of our home crowd is always a joy. The good news is that we’re playing the second leg at home. It’s a two-leg match; nothing is decided in the first game. Until the referee blows the final whistle in ‘Morača’, we’ll continue to fight,” said Radović.

SIMIĆ: I ANTICIPATE SUCCESS IN BOTH MATCHES

Montenegro aims for its third appearance at the World Handball Championships. The “Lions” previously eliminated Greece in the playoffs two years ago, a team regarded as similar to Italy, according to goalkeeper Nebojša Simić.

“We recognize the significance of our win against Serbia. Italy is comparable to Greece, our past playoff opponent. They are shorter, quicker, and aggressive, frequently lacking left-handed players in the right-back position. There are many parallels to Greece. We faced considerable challenges, but we broke them in Morača. This time, I hope for a different outcome; we aim for a solid performance in the second match. It’s vital we maintain our competitive maturity and not underestimate anyone,” Simić stated clearly.

The Melzungen goalkeeper emphasized the importance of respecting Italy.

“Italy has a commendable goalkeeper, which is crucial in handball. Moreover, several team members play in Germany and France, making them a formidable opponent. Based on our performance over the last four or five years, we must acknowledge our favorite status and embrace that role. I foresee positive results in both matches,” concluded Simić.

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