Sibling steals each other's inherited titles within the family.
In a captivating turn of events, the upcoming Handball Bundesliga match between Füchse Berlin and MT Melsungen promises not only a highly competitive match but also a generational showdown. This family affair sees Carsten Lichtlein, a 2007 World Champion and 44-year-old veteran, challenging his nephew, 22-year-old Nils Lichtlein, a rising star in the handball world.
Two years ago, the Lichtlein duo celebrated their joint triumph at the U21 Handball World Championship. A reunion might be on the cards in a few weeks, but this time, only one can secure the title of German Champion. This Thursday, at the Max-Schmeling Hall in Berlin, the preliminary showdown takes place as Füchse Berlin host MT Melsungen. Carsten Lichtlein, back on the court after a severe knee injury sidelined the starting goalkeeper, will be on the opposing team's bench, not just as a coach but as a player.
Speaking about his return, Carsten expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It's great to be back on the court. No one thought it was possible, not even me." If the Polish goalie Adam Morawski doesn't deliver an outstanding performance, Carsten could find himself capable of blocking shots from his nephew. "It's strange to play against my nephew," he admitted, "but it's about the championship, so I could block out the duel with Nils during the 60 minutes."
In the opposite corner, Nils Lichtlein has gathered national attention as a prodigious talent. He has already represented Germany in major tournaments and is a significant player for Füchse Berlin, earning praise for his exceptional game management skills, situational awareness, and calm decision-making.
Despite his elder relative's impressive accolades, Carsten Lichtlein has showered Nils with high praises. He admits that Nils' development over the past two years has been remarkable, singling out his exceptional aptitude for the game despite the team's need for him to focus more on defense according to the national coach's preferences.
The elder Lichtlein's accomplished career has seen him amass an impressive title collection, including two European Championships and a World Championship in 2007. With 716 appearances, he stands as the Bundesliga's all-time record player. He ended his career three years ago and took up a goalkeeper coach role at MT Melsungen, the very same club he now challenges.
Known for their lavish expenditure on numerous German national players, MT Melsungen has faced criticism for fielding a "mercenary" team. However, since Roberto Garcia Parrondo took over as coach in September 2021, the team has shown significant improvements, leading to a change in public perception.
In their bid for the championship, both teams have high stakes: the winner could secure a crucial lead in the championship race with just three games remaining, potentially securing a Champions League spot for next season. The loser may have to settle for the less lucrative European League.
The direct duel is significant for another reason – it could determine the top spot in the Bundesliga, as Füchse Berlin and SC Magdeburg are currently level on points, with neither team keen to let the advantage slip away. If each team wins their remaining games, the direct duel will be decisive. However, MT Melsungen's recent inconsistent performances may provide Füchse Berlin with an edge in this potentially title-deciding matchup.
In this exciting encounter, the seasoned Carsten Lichtlein, a former World Champion and German handball legend, will play against his nephew Nils Lichtlein, a burgeoning defensive star in the handball industry. This Thursday, as Füchse Berlin hosts MT Melsungen, not only the Handball Bundesliga title is up for grabs, but also a spot in the coveted UEFA Champions League for the ensuing season, as both teams compete fiercely in the European leagues.
