Montenegro’s national handball team is set to face the Faroese Islands in a must-win match during the European Championship, taking place today at 18:00 in Oslo. This crucial encounter follows a disappointing start for Montenegro, which lost a high-scoring match against Slovenia 41-40, leaving them without any points after the first round of the tournament.
The significance of this match cannot be overstated. Montenegro previously faced the Faroese Islands during the qualifiers for the 2020 European Championship and suffered a shocking 24-24 draw on October 24, 2018. Eight months later, they redeemed themselves with a 24-21 victory, securing their place at the finals while the Faroese were left with only one point from that encounter in Podgorica.
Over the past seven years, the handball landscape has shifted dramatically. Montenegro reached an admirable 11th place at the EHF Euro 2022, but the Faroese Islands have made remarkable progress, transforming from underdogs into a competitive team that many now see as a threat. With one point from their opening match against Switzerland, the Faroese are currently in a strong position, while Montenegro is under immense pressure to perform.
As Montenegro prepares for this vital clash, players are reflecting on the recent loss. Vuko Borozan, a prominent left back for the team, expressed the pain of losing by just one goal. “It was tough to sleep after that match,” he admitted. “But we must move on and focus on the Faroese Islands. This is our final.”
The Faroese team has demonstrated their resilience, recently holding Switzerland to a dramatic 28-28 draw after leading by six goals in the second half. Elias Elefsen a Skipagotu has been a standout player for them, showcasing skill and determination that will pose a challenge for Montenegro’s defense.
Borozan emphasized the need for psychological recovery within the team. “If we prepare mentally, we can beat anyone. The match against Slovenia is behind us; this is our final,” he stated, highlighting the importance of a strong mindset.
Montenegro’s coach, Mirko Radović, knows the stakes are high. A loss today would significantly diminish their chances of advancing to the main round, where only two teams from their group will qualify. The players must not only fend off the high-paced offense of the Faroese but also manage their fatigue from the intense match against Slovenia.
In a competitive group where every match counts, Miodrag Ćorsović, a pivot from the French club Dijon, noted the unpredictability of the tournament. “We lost to Slovenia, and the Faroese and Switzerland drew. Everything is still open. We know what we need to do in the remaining two matches,” he remarked.
The atmosphere in Oslo is expected to be electric, with around 6,000 fans from the Faroese Islands traveling to support their team. The players understand the advantage of a passionate crowd. “It is much better to play in a full arena; it motivates you to give your best,” said Ćorsović, recognizing the competitive spirit that comes with such support.
As the match approaches, the key for Montenegro will be to stabilize their defense and reduce the number of goals conceded. “Against Slovenia, it was a race without defense. We need to improve our defensive play and convert our scoring opportunities. To win a game at the European Championship, we must be at our best,” Ćorsović emphasized.
With the stakes high and both teams eager to secure a victory, tonight’s match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Montenegro is determined to reclaim their position and ensure they remain in contention for advancement in the championship.
