The Wiener Stadthalle was upside down and the Norwegian fans had every reason to celebrate. Norway’s women were crowned handball queens of Europe for the tenth time. In the end, they surprisingly prevailed against Denmark in the final with 31:23.
The Danes had the better start and were almost always in the lead in the first half. Norway, considered favorites, had problems finding their rhythm. It was only just before the break that Norway, led by an outstanding Henny Reistad, turned the tide and were ahead with 13:12. Everything was still open and balanced.
Clear thing in the second half
Neither team will likely forget the second half so quickly. Denmark suddenly acted incredibly incorrectly, weakened itself with time penalties and did not score a goal for several minutes. The Norwegians were completely different, as they were able to rely on goalkeeper Solberg on defense and now scored at will on offense. The lead grew noticeably and 15 minutes before the end it was clear that Norway would not let this game go. The clear final score was 31:23, the Norwegians are deserved European champions, and Reistad was named player of the final.
Austria’s next task
The European Championships have now ended in Vienna, qualification for the World Cup is just around the corner. Austria will face Turkey in April 2025 in the fight for a ticket to the 2025 finals in Germany and the Netherlands. “Turkey has caught up in recent years, especially in women’s handball. I think it’s a manageable hurdle for us. We really want to go to the World Cup and will now start preparing for Turkey,” was the initial assessment by ÖHB sports director Patrick Fölser.
Team boss Monique Tijsterman adds: “Of course you always hope for an opponent against whom you think you have a chance. You never know how the other teams will develop in the coming months, not to mention injuries and possible comebacks after injuries.” But the Dutchwoman warns against taking the opponent lightly. “The away game with so many spectators will be very difficult. We hope that we will have a full house at home too.”