Handball Euro: everything you need to know before the last group match of the Blues against Serbia

Flawless. So far, the Blues have never had to tremble in this Euro after an inaugural success against Croatia (27-22) then a walkover against Ukraine (36-23). Before facing Serbia, Guillaume Gille’s men are seriously considering the main round even if, mathematically, nothing is still 100% sure. A loss by 7 or more goals would eliminate the reigning Olympic champions. It’s hard to imagine such a catastrophic scenario, but it would be imprudent to take the victory against the Serbs for granted.

No wins in last two games

Lately, the Habs have got into the habit of breaking their teeth against the “Orlovi” (Eagles). During the qualifiers for this Euro, France lost on Serbian soil (27-24) before snatching a draw at home (26-26). The opportunity to “put the church back in the middle of the village” according to winger Valentin Porte. Deprived of many executives, Serbia is amputated from its star, Petar Nenadic, hit in the thigh, as well as Petar Djordjic positive for Covid. Guillaume Gille’s men will however have to keep an eye on the twirling center half Lazar Kukic, author of 7 goals and 3 assists against Ukraine.

A victory would put the Blues in a comfortable position

If the Blues were to lose a narrow head on Monday against the Serbs, their qualification for the main round should not be threatened. On the other hand, this would give Serbia an advantage for the rest of the competition. In this Euro, the results acquired in the group stages are retained during the main round. Clearly, if France wins, it will keep in its favor the points gleaned against the second qualified team. An issue not to be overlooked for the Habs.

A special match for Nikola Karabatic

To meet the challenge, the Blues can count on Nikola Karabatic, rested against Ukraine. The French superstar will face his native country, who was born in Niš in central Serbia. A necessarily special match for the PSG player who should celebrate his 325th cap in the jersey flanked by the rooster. Despite ten gold medals and three Olympic titles with the Blues, Karabatic, 37, still does not seem satisfied and is ready to guide the Blues against his second homeland.

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