The Hungarian national women's handball team qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Championship, but experienced a dangerous match against Japan, ended in a tie: 26-26. At the end of the game, the Hungarians broke free, celebrated with their own fans, received candy from “Santa Claus”, and some went through some complicated episodes.
After the victory with Romania, score 34-29in the neighboring country there was a general euphoria, also visible in the statements of the players, who expressed their joy in discussions with journalists. Success against Ovidiu Mihăilă's team did not guarantee Hungary qualification for the “quarters” of the World Cup.
Hungary qualified for the 'quarters' after an incredible comeback against Japan
For that, the Hungarians had to get at least a draw in the duel with the awkward national team of Japan. The first half was strange and very few goals were scored, Hungary entering the locker room with a minimal advantage: 8-7.
In the second part of the game, the Asian women performed excellently, dominated their opponents and even led to 6 goals (20-14), being close to a huge surprise. However, Vladimir Golovin's students returned and, taking advantage of the parades of Zsofi Szemerey, the play with extremes and the brave actions of the young Petra Simondrew the draw that ensured their presence in the first 8 teams of the World Cup: 26-26.
After the final whistle, our neighbors celebrated the victory with the Hungarian gallery present in the Rotterdam arena. Because of emotions, Petra Tovizi felt sick and kept her hand on her heart, being encouraged by her colleagues.
The Hungarian players received candy from Santa Claus
In the stands of the hall in Holland there was also a man dressed in Santa Claus, who gave candies to the Hungarian players. They accepted the gift from “Mikulas” and continued their tour, clapping with the Hungarian supporters.
Vladimir Golovin: “The team showed how mentally strong they are”
It was very difficult, the whole match was like that. We didn't do what we planned in the first half. The Japanese women distanced themselves and we somehow lost confidence, but when it looked like the boat was going to sink, we came back.
The team showed how mentally strong they are, how much they want to succeed. I didn't play perfect handball, but that doesn't mean I didn't do anything. Our disruptive defense didn't work, we need to open up a little bit.
I'm very happy to have qualified for the quarter-finals, but there were elements of our game that didn't work and we definitely need to fix them before the next game. They say there's always a bad game. I hope that was in this tournament.
– Vladimir Golovin, coach of Hungaryquoted by nemzitsport.hu
