Article by Adrian Jitea – Published Monday, June 01, 2026, 11:11 / Updated Monday, June 01, 2026 11:13
MT Melsungen defeated THW Kiel 24-23 to win the EHF European League. Nebojsa Simic (33 years old), the goalkeeper of the champion, gave a remarkable speech at the end.
Melsungen just achieved the most important feat in over a century of history. In the European League Final Four in Hamburg, Roberto Garcia Parrondo's men started with the second chance in both disputes.
In the semifinals, they defeated the big favorite Flensburg, the champion of the last two seasons, score 37-30. In the last9 act, the victim was the other colossus from the Bundesliga, Kiel, 24-23.
Nebojsa Simic, after Melsungen's triumph: “It means everything to me!”
Montenegrin goalkeeper Nebojsa Simic contributed fully to the champion's success. He defended 11 of the 33 shots he faced, then appeared visibly emotional in front of reporters.
That means everything to me. I came to Melsungen nine years ago and have not earned anything until now. Now this title feels 10 times more intense. It's phenomenal! I feel like my favorite basketball player, Dirk Nowitzki, who always stayed with the same team. He fought against all odds and brought the title at one point. That's how I feel now. I don't know what anyone could give me more than to bring glory and this championship trophy to Melsungen.
Bro let me celebrate now! I waited 9 years. I will think about other distinctions another time. I can rest easy now! I swear, I'm so happy. My goal was to bring the medal to Melsungen. Whatever happens from now on will be a bonus. I am so happy that we have become a winning club! We don't have a sad story anymore. It's for fans, for colleagues, for everyone!
– Nebojsa Simic, goalkeeper Melsungen
In the German championship, with two stages left to play, Melsungen is in 7th place. The next round, on June 4, will receive the visit of Fuchse Berlin.
The situation is an interesting one. According to the new system implemented by the EHF, Melsungen should lose the match to increase their chances of qualifying for the next edition of the Champions League.
A country is allowed to send a maximum of 3 teams in groups. Magdeburg are already champions and Fuchse are currently in second place. He has a lead of just two points over Flensburg.
- If Fuchse finish in 2nd place, Melsungen will surely go to the next edition of the League
- If Fuchse loses 2nd place, Melsungen needs the Berlin team NOT to win the current edition of the League. The Foxes are qualified for the Final Four.
VIDEO. Summary of the final won by Melsungen
