Serbia claimed a landmark victory in the post-Tokyo era, defeating Spain 12–11 in a dramatic Round 2 clash at the Men’s European Championships in Belgrade (Group C).
It was Serbia’s first win over Spain in a major competition since the 2021 Olympic semifinals. The hosts led for long stretches and built a three-goal advantage in the third quarter (9–6), appearing to have the match under control.
The game turned early in the fourth period when Dušan Mandić was excluded for brutality while Serbia led 9–7. During the four-minute suspension, Spain fought back to level the score at 10–10 and soon edged ahead (11–10).
Serbia responded calmly in the closing minute. Strahinja Rašović equalised with 58 seconds remaining, and after two key defensive stops, Viktor Rašović struck the winner just six seconds from time to seal a memorable victory.
Hungary secure top spot in Group A
Hungary booked first place in Group A with a controlled 13–10 win over Montenegro, while France also advanced after defeating Malta 22–11.
Hungary – Montenegro 13–10
(4:3, 4:1, 3:1, 2:5)
Hungary gradually pulled clear after a tight opening quarter, capitalising on Montenegrin missed chances and counterattacks. By halftime, the 13-time champions led 8–4 and effectively decided the contest late in the third quarter, stretching the lead to six goals.
Dániel Angyal led the scoring with three goals from three shots. Hungary converted 13 of 28 attempts, while Montenegro struggled at 29% shooting efficiency.
Hungary head coach Zsolt Varga praised his team’s defensive performance, calling it “organised, disciplined, and the foundation of the win.”
France rebound convincingly against Malta
Malta – France 11–22
(4:6, 2:5, 3:6, 4:5)
France recovered well from their opening loss, taking control early and never allowing Malta back into contention. Strong man-up conversion (7/10) and disciplined defence saw the French build an 11-goal advantage in the final period.
Romain Marion-Vernoux scored five times, while Malta limited the margin late to avoid a heavier defeat.
Group A standings:
Hungary 6 pts, Montenegro 3, France 3, Malta 0
Netherlands confirm progress in Group C
Netherlands – Israel 19–11
(4:3, 5:0, 5:5, 5:3)
After their shootout defeat to Serbia, the Netherlands secured comfortable points against Israel to confirm a place in Group Phase II. A 6–0 run from late in the first quarter broke the contest open.
Group C standings:
Serbia 5 pts, Netherlands 4, Spain 3, Israel 0
Day 4 schedule
Group B: Georgia – Croatia (12:45), Slovenia – Greece (15:15)
Group D: Slovakia – Italy (18:00), Romania – Türkiye (20:30)
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