The final two matches of 2024 for the Budućnost handball team will see them face off against the same opponent—Danish Esbjerg in the seventh and eighth rounds, starting with tonight’s game at 18:00 in “Morača”.

This presents another opportunity for the Podgorica women to secure their first victory after drawing in their home match against Djer and suffering five losses in the previous six rounds.

The talented coach Bojana Popović last led her team into action on October 19, where they faced defeat against Vipers away, and she views the extended break as a disadvantage…

“In that time, Esbjerg played seven matches. No matter how we attempt to simulate match conditions in practice, it’s not the same, as we don’t have 14 elite players training to provide each other with that competitive edge,” Popović stated.

Budućnost aims to be competitive, something they have struggled with in many past games…

“We will strive, as we do against any other teams, to provide as strong a challenge as possible,” added Bojana Popović.

Esbjerg has recorded four victories and two losses across the six rounds thus far.

“Henny Reystad serves as their primary playmaker. Still, we will focus on our game strategy and attempt to set a pace that suits us. This approach is essential for us to contend with them effectively. If we get caught up in a fast-paced game, it could be challenging. I hope we can keep pace in at least one segment of the match and that the girls show some improvement throughout these double matches,” Bojana expressed.

The participation of goalkeeper Sakura Mound remains uncertain due to injury, alongside Ana Popović.

“Ana took a hard hit to her thigh. Therefore, we enter this match missing two key players. It’s crucial that we start off fighting just as we did against Đero. We believe we can compete with anyone, and combativeness is always essential,” remarked the newly appointed head coach of the Montenegrin national team.

Winger Nina Bulatović recognizes the tough challenges Budućnost faces against Esbjerg this week.

“It goes without saying what caliber of a team Esbjerg is; they are built to compete for the Champions League title. Our focus must first be on our gameplay. I believe our significant challenge is maintaining rotation, as prolonged continuity across all 60 minutes is difficult in modern handball,” Nina acknowledged.

With 62 goals, Rejstad holds the title of the top scorer in this season’s Champions League.

“She is a key player, but certainly not the only one we should be wary of. She netted numerous goals in every match, and our main focus must be on her. I believe any player can falter if we dedicate our efforts to that,” concluded Nadja Kadović.

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