Hungary and Spain maintained their perfect starts at the Women’s U20 European Championships in Oeiras, while hosts Portugal secured a dramatic shootout victory over Romania to advance to the crossover stage.
Hungary followed Saturday’s dominant victory over the Netherlands with another 12-goal win, defeating Croatia 19-7 to secure first place in Group B.
Croatia remained competitive during the opening half and scored three unanswered goals late in the second quarter to reduce Hungary’s lead to 8-6. However, Peter Biros’ side responded emphatically, scoring seven consecutive goals and completely taking control of the contest.
Kata Hajdu led Hungary with five goals, while Laura Kardos added two as the Hungarians continued to demonstrate why they are among the leading contenders in Portugal.
The Netherlands recovered strongly from their opening defeat, producing a dominant performance to beat France 28-6. Pien Gorter scored six times as the Dutch established a 5-0 first-quarter lead and continued to extend their advantage throughout the match.
Spain also preserved their unbeaten record, although the defending champions were pushed hard by Greece before eventually winning 17-13.
The teams were level at 7-7 at half-time following an entertaining opening two quarters in which the lead repeatedly changed hands. Spain moved two goals ahead on several occasions, but Greece continued to respond and entered the final period only one goal behind at 12-11.
Spain finally created separation late in the fourth quarter, moving 15-12 ahead before Martina Claveria and Lucia Rodriguez completed the victory with two late goals.
Italy earned their first win of the competition by defeating Israel 17-12. The Italians led 9-3 during the third quarter, but Israel fought back to reduce the deficit to two before Italy regained control in the closing stages.
The most dramatic match of the day came between Portugal and Romania. Romania opened with a commanding 5-1 first-quarter advantage, but the hosts gradually recovered and equalised early in the third period.
Portugal trailed 8-7 with only seconds remaining before Rita Martins scored from long range to force a penalty shootout. Romania missed twice, while Portugal converted all four attempts to claim a 12-10 victory and secure their place in the crossovers.
Neutral Athletes B also advanced after recording the biggest victory of the day, beating Malta 32-7.
Elsewhere, Czechia defeated Ireland 12-9, while Serbia moved closer to winning Group F with a convincing 17-5 victory over Switzerland.
Day 2 results
Group A
Israel 12-17 Italy
Spain 17-13 Greece
Group B
France 6-28 Netherlands
Hungary 19-7 Croatia
Group C
Neutral Athletes B 32-7 Malta
Group D
Portugal 12-10 Romania, after penalties
Group E
Ireland 9-12 Czechia
Group F
Switzerland 5-17 Serbia
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