Narrow 29:31 defeat – Switzerland demands everything from Germany, but it’s not enough – Sport

• The Swiss handball team was defeated by Germany 29:31 in the second World Cup preliminary round game in Herning.
• Switzerland demands everything from the favorites for a long time, but the Germans are too strong in the final phase.
• This means that the national team will still have to make progress in the last group game against Poland on Sunday.

Switzerland was close to a surprise win against the big favorites from Germany. Close, but in the end it wasn’t quite enough. The Nati made too many mistakes in the final phase, which the Germans exploited mercilessly. This ultimately resulted in a 29:31 defeat for Switzerland, which would have deserved at least one point thanks to their courageous and long, highly concentrated performance.

Only about 5 minutes before the end of the game was the Olympic silver medalist able to get the game on track. Lukas Mertens made it 28:27, and less than 60 seconds later it was 30:27 after two quick Swiss errors. There was no response to this setback – it was the decision.

Despite the bitter result, the Swiss can be satisfied with their performance. Compared to the opening game against the Czech Republic, the teamwork worked better, and with the narrow defeat everything is still possible in terms of the main round. Because the Czech Republic and Poland played a 19:19 draw in the other game in Group A, a draw is enough for the national team in the final preliminary round game against the Poles.

Open game

Switzerland started the game strongly and was leading by three goals at one point. Lenny Rubin, who was ultimately the top scorer with 7 goals, was particularly convincing. Even when they were behind for the first time after 22 minutes or the 13:15 at the break, coach Andy Schmid’s team didn’t let themselves be disconcerted.

The Swiss repeatedly worked their way back into the game, and in the second half a real exchange of blows developed with various leadership changes. The fact that the Swiss didn’t score more goals was mainly due to German goalkeeper Andreas Wolff. As is often the case at major events, he was at his best and recorded 20 saves. Nikola Portner, on the other hand, saved 13 shots.

This is how it goes

On Sunday it’s all about making it into the main round for the national team. In the last preliminary round game, the Swiss will face Poland from 3:30 p.m. (live on SRF).

Overview of the Handball World Cup