Montenegro and Hungary face off once more after 14 months since their last meeting in Munich, a period that feels even longer. Both teams kicked off the European Championship qualifiers with two victories, the first at the M:tel “Morača” hall (tonight at 18:00), followed by another match in Tatabanja in four days. The outcome will determine who secures the top spot in the EHF Euro qualifications.

In the historic “Olympiahalle” on January 12, 2024, Montenegro had a chance for a draw but fell short (26:24 defeat) and subsequently faced a setback against Italy in the World Cup play-off. However, they have rebounded under the guidance of Didier Dinar, while Hungary nearly reached the World Cup semi-finals a year later.

Much has transpired in this short span; now it’s time for yet another derby, where Dinar’s team will aim to challenge a global powerhouse.

– We surely remember that past match, and we’ll strive to leverage our strengths from it while enhancing certain aspects of our game, stated Branko Vujović, a top right-back in Europe who faced a tough luck moment when his shot was saved by Kristof Palasic.

No one has an advantage in front of our supporters.

For many years, the “Morača” arena was an impenetrable fortress, even against handball powerhouses like Denmark, Sweden, and Germany. However, it has recently been more susceptible, with teams like Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Italy claiming victories there.

– We hope Morača will be filled to capacity, and after such a long time, we will celebrate a win in our largest hall. I urge our fans to turn out in numbers and support us while we fight on the court, emphasized captain Mirko Radovic.

Victories against Finland and Slovakia at the beginning of the qualifiers have certainly put the “lions” back on track.

– We accomplished what we needed to; we regained the confidence we lost against Italy. We have come together again, securing two critical wins, and now we’re up against the Hungarians, a handball superpower. But we’ll go for the win, especially on home ground. I believe no one is favored playing in front of our supporters, concluded Vujović.

A crucial start, but staying “alive” is key.

Hungary boasts many skilled players, but their strongest asset Mrs. Rodriguez is in a pivot position supported by two formidable players Bence Banhidi (questionable for tonight’s match) and Miklos Rosta.

– The preparation time for these two challenging matches against an excellent national team is short. How we begin the game will be vital, in addition to how we manage their top-notch guards and pivots. There will be much strategic maneuvering on the court, and we hope to exhibit great dedication and fight for our national team, stressed Radović.

The opening will be significant, but also…

– I hope we will remain “alive” until the end of the game. If it comes down to a close finish, we may have an advantage in front of our supporters. We’re anticipating a formidable opponent, with tactical battles on both coaching and player levels. May the best team triumph, and we will give our utmost effort, believes Radović.

A ticket to the EHF Euro in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden is almost secured, but heading to Scandinavia with at least one victory over a major opponent would be quite fulfilling.

We knew Denmark was tough…

Admission to tonight’s derby is free, and expectations are high for “hell” Morača to propel Montenegro to a significant victory, although the caliber of the opponent is well-known.

– We understood Denmark’s strength and managed to win. A home victory is essential for rekindling faith among our fans. We’ll fight hard; we’re up against an exceptional team, but we have plenty to showcase, asserted Branko Vujović.

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