Handball National Coach Gives Vice World Champions Break - Germany's expanded handball squad eyes Euro 2024 prep with fresh faces
Germany's women's handball team has named an expanded 21-player squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers. Though already qualified for the tournament, head coach Markus Gaugisch has chosen to rotate players and rest key names. The team will face North Macedonia on 8 April in Skopje before hosting Belgium four days later in Hamm.
Several vice world champions, including Katharina Filter, Emily Vogel and Alexia Hauf, have been left out of the squad. Gaugisch explained that the decision aims to ease the workload on experienced players while giving younger talents a chance. The larger roster also reflects a focus on recovery and development.
Aimée von Pereira and Mareike Thomaier return after recovering from injuries, boosting the squad's depth. Four players—Sarah Wachter, Alina Grijseels, Viola Leuchter and Annika Lott—will each feature in only one of the two matches. This approach allows Gaugisch to manage minutes and test different combinations ahead of future competitions.
Germany secured their place at Euro 2024 earlier in the campaign. With qualification already assured, these fixtures now serve as preparation and an opportunity to refine tactics.
The matches against North Macedonia and Belgium will provide a platform for emerging players to gain international experience. The expanded squad highlights Germany's strategy of balancing rest and progression. Both games will take place within four days, testing the team's adaptability and depth.
