Both favourites struggle but win in Prešov

Tatran Prešov will face Dinamo Minsk in the final of the Qualification Tournament 2 in Prešov. The winner of the clash will have the right to challenge the likes of FC Barcelona in Group C of the VELUX EHF Champions League.

A.E.K. Athens will face Besiktas JK in the match for the third place tomorrow in Tatran Handball arena, with the final between Tatran Prešov and HC Dinamo Minks taking place at 18:00.

Qualification Tournament 2, semi-finals:

Tatran Prešov vs Besiktas JK Istanbul 32:30 (17:12)

Prešov started game against Turkish champion Besiktas JK very well, dominated the first half and were the better team on the court. Besiktas had problems overcoming compact defence with superb Svetislav Verkić in goal of the home team.

Together with Radoslav Antl (6 goals), Verkić was the key men of the match for the hosts. Little slip in performance in the second half though, has to keep Tatran coach Peter Hatalčík cautious, to prevent such scenario happening on Sunday.

"First half was more than decent from our side. I have to undeline the team spirit and will to fight for the final. We kept Besiktas in the distance from our goal did not allow them to get into scoring opportunities," Antl said.

After the break, we allowed them to get back into the match. We need to keep focused for the whole game tomorrow. We will enjoy this win, get a good rest and tomorrow another big day awaits us,“ he concluded for ehfCL.com.

HC Dinamo Minsk – A.E.K. Athens 25:21 (11:13)

In the first game of the day, Dinamo Minsk did not allow any suprise neither and fought back in the second half to earn a spot in the final of the qualifying group 2 in Prešov. AEK Athens suprised the Belarusian side in the first half with aggresive play that made problems for the favourites.

Dinamo were all over A.E.K. after the break though, the more experienced team prevailed and thanks to six goals from Dzmitry Nikulenkeau won by four goals 25:21.