With the victory over Serbia in Zrenjanin (31:30), Montenegrin handball players secured a place at the European Championship in Hungary, Austria and Switzerland, because in the remaining three rounds, they cannot even theoretically escape the status of one of the four best third-placed selections from eight groups.
The Lionesses achieved victory with a goal by Itana Grbić in the last minute, and they could have decided the match earlier, as they had a five-goal lead eight times in the first half.
"We knew it would be a difficult match. Serbia got up after the 1st half, gave more, we knew it would be a see-saw until the end. I am proud that we took two points, which are very important for the European Championship. It is important that the players get through these matches, they showed character, focus and patience until the very end," said Bojana Popović.
On Sunday, Montenegro welcomes the same rival in the "Bemax Arena", a victory would ensure the 1st place in group 6 and a better position before the draw.
"The second match will not be easy either. Serbia is playing excellently, waiting long and persistently for chances. We were not up to par defensively, the midfield failed a bit, that must be corrected by Sunday. There were hasty shots, we had mistakes in defense, we have to analyze and solve that before the next match".
The atmosphere in the "Crystal Hall" was wonderful, on Sunday the hospitality must be returned.
"There was a great atmosphere in Zrenjanin, friendly and fair-play cheering. I expect that the 'Bemax arena' will be full and that we will enjoy playing another game", said the coach.
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