Domagoj Duvnjak was the key man in Croatia's victory over Montenegro at the start of the handball EURO.
In the second half, the great guard played phenomenally in defense, as an advanced player in the 5-1 zone, he completely disrupted the attack of the "lions", who led 30:13 after 12 minutes.
In the end, 27:21 for Croatia.
"We didn't play that badly in the first half. Our defense was good, much better than in friendly matches. We played too stupidly in attack, and the Montenegrins were smart and took advantage of that. The second half was excellent. What we agreed on half-time, that's what we did. I think our form can only go upward," said Duvnjak, then added:
"We're not playing with each other yet, but we're still looking for each other. Keep in mind that we've been together for a very short time. The second half should be a guide for us to continue the championship."
Croats also had huge support from the stands of the hall in Graz.
"Phenomenal atmosphere, they were really great. I thank them on behalf of the whole team. It's much easier to play like this, when you know that your people are behind you. When we were losing, they were an additional wind at our backs. I thank them and hope that they will be in the same number on Saturday," Duvnjak concluded.
Selector Lino Cervar said that his team deservedly won.
"Deservedly, although I hope that we will be better in the next game. In the first half, we were not patient, but we fell for their game, positional attack. We finished individually, the defense was not compact and we did not play as a team. The defense was stronger in the second half , it functioned well led by Duvnjak and goalkeeper Šeg. But if we play like this against Belarus in the first half, we will not win the game," Červar warned.
Bonus video:
