Decision time in World Championship Play-offs

The first legs of the European play-offs for the 2013 Men’s World Championship were played last weekend – everything is up for grabs this Saturday and Sunday.

The biggest margins were scored by Iceland (41:27 against Netherlands) and the Germans after their 36:24 against Bosnia, followed by a clear Polish away victory in Lithuania (24:17). Those three teams seem to be in with a good chance of booking their tickets to Spain.

“The atmosphere will play an important role in Sarajevo - duels in Balkan countries are a real challenge,” commented German coach Martin Heuberger.

A close call for Sweden and Russia

Some top teams will not have it easy next weekend, like 2011 World Championship host Sweden after their surprising close 22:21 against Montenegro.

However, top star Kim Andersson, will be available to play the second leg in the lion’s den in Podgorica.

“We are proud of the result from the first leg – but now we can make history, pushed by our fans,” coach Kastratovic commenting after the close encounter.
 
After missing the 2011 World Championships, Russia had a tough game ending 23:22 in favour of the Russians against a Czech team including former World Handball Player Filip Jicha.

Slovenia, FYR Macedonia and Hungry with strong first legs

Slovenia have a good chance of qualifying for the first ever Men’s IHF event in Spain in January 2013, after their 31:26 against Portugal.

Belarus gained a surprising 26:24 away victory in Slovakia

FYR Macedonia came out on top against Austria 26:21 thanks to goals from their top star Kiril Lazarov. “We are hoping for a sold-out arena and a huge support,” Austrian coach Patrekur Johanesson hopes for a surprise, but: “A five goals gap is a big hurdle, but my players know how to fight for every goal.”

The Hungarians beat Norway 27:21 with their world class player Laszlo Nagy who had six goals to his name.

Follow on TV 

The matches can be followed on television around Europe. Check out the Hot on TV section of eurohandball.com for timings and channels. Viewers are advised to check local listings.

Men's World Championship in Spain

The 23rd IHF World Championship will be played in Spain from 13 to 27 January 2013. Visit the event's website and official Facebook Page for more information.

Result summary of the first leg/dates second leg:
Russia vs. - Czech Republic 23:22 (11:12)
Second leg: Saturday, 16:00 hrs local time

Slovenia vs. Portugal 31:26 (11:10)
Second leg: Saturday, 17:00 hrs local time

Germany vs. Bosnia Herzegovina 36:24 (18:7)
Second leg: Sunday, 13:30 hrs local time

Slovakia vs. Belarus 24:26 (10:12)
Second leg: Sunday, 17:00 hrs local time

FYR Macedonia vs. Austria 26:21 (16:10)
Second leg: Saturday, 20:25 hrs local time

Lithuania vs. Poland 17:24 (9:12)
Second leg: Sunday, 17:30 hrs local time

Hungary vs. Norway 27:21 (12:10)
Second leg: Saturday, 19:10 hrs local time

Sweden vs. Montenegro 22:21 (12:10)
Second leg: Saturday, 18:30 hrs local time

Iceland vs. Netherlands 41:27 (17:14)
Second leg: Saturday, 19:30 hrs local time