The reigning EHF European League Women champions, Thüringer HC, began their title defence with a defeat to Motherson Mosonmagyaróvári KC in Hungary, as Johanna Reichert’s 16 goals were not enough to stop Dragan Adžić’s ambitious squad from celebrating a win. Meanwhile, CS Minaur Baia Mare emerged victorious from a difficult trip to Norway, in one of the highlight matches in group A.

Chambray Touraine Handball, Nykøbing Falster Håndbold, HC Lokomotiva Zagreb, Viborg HK and, last but not least, the EHF Finals 2025 bronze medallists JDA Bourgogne Dijon Handball were all on the winning side in their respective groups, while CS Rapid București and Tertnes Bergen shared the points in the only draw of round 1.