BUDAPEST, January 28 (Xinhua) – Spain and Sweden set up a final clash in the European Handball Championship 2022 for men after winning their respective semi-finals on Friday.
Spain defeated Denmark 29-25 (13-14) to only advance to Sunday’s final after the Spaniards turned the match around after the first 30 minutes.
“We did a very good job in the second half, we had a fantastic goalkeeper and a brilliant defense and became stronger in the attack,” said Spain coach Jordi Ribera. “The change of defense was the key to the win. We are happy and satisfied, and I am really happy for this team and how we promote handball in Spain. Now another difficult match awaits, we will see who we play.”
The second semifinal for the day in Budapest, Sweden overtook France 34-33 (17-14).
The French team reduced their gap against Sweden to just one goal with 30 seconds left but Sweden kept their advantage to win.
Norway took fifth place and also a ticket to the world championships after beating Iceland in overtime 34-33.
Harald Reinkind scored the winning goal for the Norwegians at the end.
“It was a physically tough match, sometimes we played well, sometimes not. We tried seven-on-six in the last attack of the regular season and missed, but when Iceland missed their chance we got a new life. In the end, it was an exciting match “, said Norway’s coach Christian Berge after the match.
Source: sn.dk