Germany, the Vice-European Champion, defeated Egypt in a high-scoring match, showcasing a brilliant offensive performance in their first game since winning EM silver.
The German handball team celebrated their high-scoring victory with the applause of the Dortmund crowd. Exactly 300 days before their next medal quest at the home World Championship in January, coach Alfred Gislason’s team delivered an offensive spectacle, winning 41:38 (21:18) against African champions Egypt. In their first international match since securing EM silver, they largely continued their strong form from the beginning of the year, despite a shaky final phase.
Goalkeeper David Späth described the turbulent game, which saw 79 goals in total, as a «real goal festival.» Playmaker Juri Knorr, who was Germany’s top scorer with nine goals in front of 10,732 spectators in the sold-out Westfalenhalle, noted, «We managed to maintain a slightly higher tempo than the Egyptians, but we need to improve our defense.» Coach Gislason was critical, stating, «It was a real test. Defensively, there’s a lot we can do better,» adding that his team wasn’t «mobile enough.»
The anticipated fast-paced duel unfolded against the physically strong World Championship quarter-finalists. The German team frequently had to assert themselves against the immense backcourt pressure from their opponents but found numerous offensive solutions, especially thanks to a formidable Knorr after the break. Even when Egypt closed the gap to 37:38 in the 59th minute, Knorr provided the decisive response.
This match was the first of a two-game test series, with the second part scheduled for Sunday in Bremen. Following the Dortmund match, the national players were honored in a ceremony for winning the EM silver medal.
Germany Delivers Spectacle, But Concedes Too Many Goals
Gislason had previously warned that the North Africans were «a very good opponent, against whom we really need to play very well if we want to develop and win.» This was confirmed early on, as the Egyptians scored several easy goals from the backcourt with immense power. The German team, including its 14 EM silver medalists, was primarily dangerous on fast breaks during the entertaining opening phase.
As Späth, who was in goal in the absence of rested Andreas Wolff, found his rhythm, the German team also reduced their offensive errors and made a strong surge. Knorr capped a 6:1 run, establishing Germany’s first three-goal lead at 10:7 (14th minute).
Gislason, whose contract expires after the 2027 home World Championship, observed the spectacle with composure. Hands in his pockets, the Icelander watched as his team’s offensive engine continuously heated up. The only flaw: the defense remained vulnerable despite some saves from Späth.
At halftime, EM discovery Miro Schluroff stated, «We want to play with pace. Nevertheless, we need to defend better; 18 conceded goals are simply too many.»
With five consecutive goals in less than ten minutes after the break, Knorr immediately set the pace, and his teammates followed. Captain Johannes Golla scored Germany’s 30th goal in the 41st minute, and shortly after, Tim Freihöfer extended the lead to six goals for the first time.
Although both teams made repeated errors, Germany compensated with its powerful offense. Gislason then made numerous substitutions: Berlin debutant Lasse Ludwig replaced Späth in goal, immediately making a save. Returnee Timo Kastening also played on the right wing. The match then became exciting once more.