Lions, Likely Partnered with Italy, “Azzurri,” Take Major Step Toward Playoffs in Belgium
Marco Menjon of Italy during the match against Belgium. Photo: FIGH – Federazione Italiana Giuoco Handball (Facebook)
The “lions” are set to seek their third World Cup title in mid-May, with Italy likely to be their opponent in the 2025 World Cup playoffs.
Recently, the “Azzurri” secured a 29:25 victory against Belgium in their second stage qualification match in Hasselt.
The upcoming rematch in Pescara is expected to be a mere formality for the home team.
Italy’s win under Riccardo Trillini’s leadership is somewhat unexpected, considering Belgium’s participation in the most recent World Cup held in Poland and Sweden, while Italy last appeared in major tournaments over 25 years ago (WC 1997 and EP 1998).
Davide Bulcamini led Italy at halftime with nine goals, while Mikael Halmerson netted five times. Tommaso de Angelis and Andrea Parisini contributed four goals each.
For Belgium, Kobe Seras and Sebastien Danes each scored five goals.
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