Croatia handball defeats Belgium! In the second round of the Group 2 qualifiers for the European Handball Championship in 2020, Croatia handball secured another two new points, defeating Belgium 30:25 (18:12). Lino Červar’s team faced no major problems playing away in Leuven, and with the win in Belgium, they are now first place in the qualifying Group 2, reports 24 Sata on October 28, 2018.
The Croatia handball team looked much better this afternoon than they did against Switzerland in Osijek, though it was hard to know from the beginning.
Croatia handball stabilized the game in the second part of the first half
Belgium played a tight game, pushed Croatia into passive attacks, and then played behind Croatia with a quick counter. However, Croatia was able to stabilize the game in the second part of the first half. The incredible Zlatko Horvat scored eight goals in the first half and brought Croatia to a +6 advantage.
When the game resumed Croatia returned to their routine play, came up to a +9 advantage, though they ultimately allowed Belgium the chance to show what they knew. Fortunately, Croatia was able to secure the win in the end and Belgium proved to be good hosts.
Croatia handball was much better than they were against Switzerland and await the upcoming World Championships
While the Belgians were no benchmark, Croatia can be satisfied their defense in the game was much better than in the previous game against Switzerland. The World Championships in Denmark and Germany are getting closer, where Croatia’s biggest rivals await - like every year.
As the course of the match went on, Lino Červar gave opportunities to more of Croatia’s young players. Jakov Vranković, Marin Šipić and David Mandić were given a chance. From the left wing, Mandić scored three goals, while Vranković scored four goals from the outside.
Croatia handball defeats Belgium with the help of Horvat who led the team with 8 goals
Zlatko Horvat led Croatia with eight goals, and a brilliant Marin Šego in goal achieved 14 saves, one of which was a penalty. Nathan Bolaers was the best for Belgium with four goals.
Croatia’s next destination is Serbia on April 10 next year. After two rounds, Serbia has one point - they drew to Belgium and lost to Switzerland.
