Big disappointment for the Blues. In this small final against Hungary, in Vienna, during the European Handball Championships, Sunday December 15, the French lost (25-24). As against Denmark in the semi-final, Sébastien Gardillou's players showed too much defensive fragility. France leaves the competition empty-handed.
The French, however, knew their opponent well, whom they had beaten in the group stage last Tuesday. The match this time was not the same and the Hungarians manhandled the Blues for most of the match thanks to an aggressive defense. Uninhibited, the Hungarian team notably counted on their center half Kuczora, effective in long shots (5/8).
Trailing by three goals at the start of the second half (16-13, 34th), the Blues took the lead thanks to a breakthrough from Grace Zaadi (22-21, 51st). Not enough, since the Hungarians, despite being outnumbered after the exclusion of Reka Bordas for two minutes, managed to equalize and then regain the advantage one minute from the end. On the last possession, the referee whistled a strong pass from Laura Flippes, letting Hungary pocket the bronze medal of this Euro 2024.
“There was a lack of efficiency, but they didn't lack heart. We are two goals short of being in front, but I am proud of my players. It was a no-brainer“, expressed coach Sébastien Gardillou after the match on beIN Sports.
As during the last Euro, Les Bleues finished fourth in the competition. Estelle Nze Minko thinks that this defeat can be educational: “In 2022, when we found ourselves in the same situation, it was a period of questioning. And behind it, we had some great competitions, some great medals. We have everything we need to do wonders.“On her future and her international retirement, the captain of the France team kicked in:”I don't know yet what I'm going to do. I'm giving myself time, I wanted to finish with a medal.“
