German Domination in the European League: THW Kiel Secures Spot, More German Teams Await
Handball Team THW Kiel Secures Semi-Final Berth in European Cup Competition
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The European League is teetering on the brink of an almost exclusive German takeover. With THW Kiel securing a place in the Final Four, two more German teams may follow suit.
In an exhilarating match at the Kiel Arena, THW Kiel beat French side Limoges Handball 35:30 (16:15) after a 26:26 draw in the quarterfinal first leg. The German record champions put on a dominant display in front of 6,294 spectators, with Eric Johansson leading the charge with seven goals. Limoges Handball's Faruk Yusuf also scored seven times, but it wasn't enough to get past the formidable THW Kiel defense.
This wasn't a walk in the park for THW Kiel, as confident Limoges started the game strong, turning a 3:6 deficit into a 13:11 lead (24th). However, after a strategic timeout from coach Filip Jicha and a switch to a more aggressive defense, THW Kiel regained control, with Emil Madsen's goal giving the hosts their first three-goal lead (21:18, 37th).
Captain Domagoj Duvnjak was a standout player for THW Kiel, scoring a breathtaking goal from behind his back (25:21, 43rd). The French team began to tire, and Bence Imre's goal (29:23, 47th) all but secured the win and a spot in the final round.
Three German teams are competing in the European League quarterfinals, with THW Kiel leading the charge. Later in the evening, reigning champions SG Flensburg-Handewitt and cup finalists MT Melsungen will also aim for a place in the top four. Flensburg will play at home with a three-goal advantage against Danish top team GOG Handbold, while Melsungen will face Bidasoa Irun in Spain, looking to defend their one-goal lead.
The European League has only seen three non-Bundesliga winners this century[5], making it a predominantly German event. Keep an eye out for the remaining German teams as they battle for a place in the Final Four, to be held in Hamburg on May 24 and 25.
[5] Further details about the other German teams and their match results can be found in the latest news or official EHF European League Men updates.
In the semi-final of the European Cup, German handball team THW Kiel secured their spot following a thrilling victory against Limoges Handball. Despite a strong start from Limoges, THW Kiel managed to switch to a more aggressive defense during a timeout, eventually winning 35:30. As more German teams await, keep an eye on SG Flensburg-Handewitt and MT Melsungen, who will compete in the quarterfinals later tonight. To stay updated on this German domination in the European League, follow us on Whatsapp, or check out the latest news on our site or social media platforms.
