Until now, the stands have been sparse at the championship. On Wednesday, the Norwegian team scored 40 goals against Switzerland in front of 1,521 spectators.
The European Handball Federation (EHF) informed NTB on Thursday that there were only a couple of hundred tickets left for the semifinal against Hungary. The arena has a capacity of 8,785 spectators.
However, after seven consecutive victories and full control, it may become busier with Hungarians in the stands. Hungary has played group stage and main round matches at home in Debrecen, and many are expected to have traveled to Vienna.
– They cheer a bit more
– I’m looking forward to having the Hungarian fans again. I’m somewhat used to it,but there’s definitely a difference between whether they cheer for you or not.But we will try to use it to our advantage, says Kari Brattset Dale to NTB.
– They cheer a bit more than they watch. It’s good with chants,and they influence the referees. They are engaged in the stands, explains Dale.
38-year-old Camilla Herrem has won ten gold medals with Norway and is familiar with being around until the end of her 20th championship.
– I think it’s important that we are able to stay a bit calm. I can contribute by trying to lighten the mood if it feels to serious and somber, says Herrem to NTB.
– There will be a lot of focus leading up to Friday, and people are going to be excited. People will be nervous, and that’s how it should be.
– Four and five and six steps
There has been a lot of talk about the refereeing performances in this year’s European Championship. The Spanish duo set to officiate Friday’s match will also be in action at the men’s World Championship in January.
Back player Ingvild Bakkerud is certainly clear that not everything has been called so far in the tournament.
– I think it will be two teams that will give it their all and will not give up.I think it will be important to go into tackles and wait to release until you actually hear the whistle.
– It’s pointless to think that you should let go on step three because here it has often been seen that you are allowed to take four, five, and six steps without a call.
Super veteran Katrine Lunde (44) agrees and adds:
– I think it has been a bit varied. Like everyone else, you want the best teammates, the best opponents, and the best referees. That’s just how it is.
What key factors can influence the outcome of the Norway vs. Hungary semifinal match in handball?
Interview with Handball Expert: Insights on Upcoming semifinal Match and Fan Influence
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. With the Norwegian handball team recently dominating Switzerland with a score of 40 goals in front of just over 1,500 spectators, what can we expect in the upcoming semifinal against Hungary, especially with the arena’s capacity of 8,785?
Expert: It’s great to be here! The atmosphere definitely plays a crucial role in matches like these. Given Norway’s recent performance, including seven consecutive victories, we can anticipate a meaningful increase in attendance, especially with Hungarian fans traveling to Vienna. Their passionate support can undoubtedly influence the game dynamics.
Time.news Editor: Kari Brattset dale mentioned that the Hungarian fans “cheer a bit more then they watch.” How do you think this affects the players on the court?
Expert: Hungarian fans are known for their energy and engagement,which can lift the home team’s morale substantially. This engagement can also affect refereeing decisions; a loud, passionate crowd can influence how officials perceive the game flow, possibly swaying their calls. It’s a double-edged sword; while it motivates the team, it can also put pressure on the opponents.
Time.news Editor: Camilla Herrem emphasized the need for the Norwegian team to stay calm amid the excitement and nerves leading up to Friday’s match. What strategies can players employ to manage their emotions in such high-pressure situations?
Expert: Staying calm is indeed crucial. Players can focus on breathing techniques or mindfulness exercises to maintain composure.Additionally, leaning on experienced players like Herrem in critical moments can definitely help lighten the mood when tensions rise. It’s all about maintaining a balance between excitement and focus.
Time.news Editor: The refereeing in this year’s championship has been a topic of discussion. Ingvild Bakkerud noted that players need to adapt to variable officiating. How should teams approach the match considering these referee inconsistencies?
Expert: Players must remain adaptable.Understanding that certain offenses may not be called as strictly can lead to a more aggressive attitude from both teams. This means players should be prepared to engage in tackles, remaining aware of the game’s rhythm and the referees’ tendencies. it’s essential for teams to strategize around this variable to exploit possible leniencies during the match.
Time.news Editor: Katrine Lunde mentioned wanting the best referees for fairness. What implications does refereeing quality have on the overall tournament and specifically on the semifinal match?
Expert: The quality of refereeing can significantly impact tournament integrity. Inconsistent officiating tends to create frustration among players and fans alike.It’s crucial for maintaining fair play, particularly in knockout stages like this one. Ideally, a well-officiated game allows both teams to showcase their skills without unnecessary distractions. This can lead to a more exciting and competitive match.
Time.news Editor: As we approach the semifinals, what practical advice would you give to fans watching the match?
Expert: For the fans, stay vocal and supportive, as this can make a difference! Engage in chants and cheers to create the right atmosphere. Remember,your energy can inspire the players on the court. Also, enjoy the experience—handball is a fast-paced, thrilling sport, and being part of the crowd can enhance your love for the game!
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insightful analysis. We’re looking forward to an exciting semifinal between Norway and Hungary this Friday!
Expert: Thank you! It’s going to be a fantastic match, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds.