The strong performance seen in the initial phase did not carry through, as tougher opponents in the main round capitalized on every error made by the Montenegrin handball players.

There were many mistakes committed against Hungary and France.

Following their game against Hungary, the Lionesses had to pay their respects to France after a 31:23 defeat, effectively ending their hopes for a semi-final and medal.

“With so many technical errors and mistakes, we can’t compete against even the weakest team, let alone against France, a team aiming for a medal,” stated Suzana Lazović, head coach of Montenegro.

France created numerous opportunities, but Montenegro was unable to capitalize on them.

“Despite the numerous errors in the first half, we managed a comeback, but that was our fifth consecutive game, and we performed poorly in the second half – we need to investigate the reasons behind this. While fatigue may be part of it, all teams deal with it – we need to understand how and why this is happening,” Lazović emphasized.

What aspects is the coach particularly dissatisfied with?

“Through technical mistakes and missed shots, we often aimed for the goalie – I doubt any team in the tournament has had goalies defend against them like Montenegro has, as if we were shooting with our own blocks.”

What about their defense?

“We did the exact opposite of what we were instructed – we ‘shot’ towards the center, even though we knew where the main threats were coming from. The only positive? Perhaps our ability to return; everything else was lacking.”

As the EHF Euro progresses, our team will face Poland and Sweden – with victories potentially leading the “Lionesses” to Vienna for a match for 5th place.

“We’re not going to approach these next two games as losses; we don’t want to tarnish the positive impression we’ve made in the group stage… It’s crucial to play until the end for both the World Championship and our mental well-being,” concluded Suzana Lazović.

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