Finish in style. Despite the low stakes of this third match of the preliminary round of the <a href="https://time.news/we-come-from-everywhere-at-the-next-european-handball-championships-it-will-be-the-turn-of-the-bleues-from-all-over-france/" title="“We come from everywhere”: at the next European Handball Championships it will be the turn of the Bleues from all over France“>European Handball Championships between Portugal and France, the Blues had only this in mind. A mission perfectly accomplished thanks to a winning frist half and Laura Glauser in excellent form (28-16). Thanks to this third success and this flawless performance, the French finished first in thier group and will start the main group in an interesting position, with a victory already on the clock.
But more then the budget,the new coach Sébastien Gardillou will undoubtedly be happy to have been able to rotate his squad,offering playing minutes to all the players. They thanked him with a complete performance and, above all, with goals. In total, 13 players found the net, with poor Jessica Vargas Ferreira defenseless. Alicia Toublanc and Sarah Bouktit were the best performers, with 5 goals.
On the other side of the pitch, Laura Glauser largely participated in the great French success, in a desperately empty St-Jakobshalle in Basel.Disgusting his opponents,especially in shots from 7 meters,the goalkeeper made six saves (46%) in the first half alone,before being replaced in the second act by Floriane André,who was even more effective (eight saves at 50%).
The Blues can now look forward to the main round with confidence, which starts on Thursday in Debrecen, Hungary. They will be part of a group made up of Hungary and Sweden. The results of group B are still awaited but montenegro already has two victories. After the four scheduled matches, the top two nations will qualify for the semi-finals of these European Women’s Handball Championships.
Interview wiht Handball Expert: Insights on France’s Performance in the European Handball Championships
Editor (Time.news): Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent performance of the French women’s handball team in the preliminary round of the european Handball Championships. France achieved a significant victory over portugal with a score of 28-16. What are your thoughts on this match and its implications for the team’s future in the tournament?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The match was a testament to France’s strength and readiness heading into the main round of the championships. Finishing strong in the preliminary round not only boosts team morale but also sets a confident tone for the upcoming matches against formidable opponents like Hungary and Sweden. This victory serves as an important momentum builder.
Editor: The French team displayed a remarkable performance, especially in the first half, with Laura Glauser making six saves. What do you think contributed to her success during the match?
Expert: Laura Glauser’s performance was outstanding, especially with her ability to read the game and react quickly to the shots from Portuguese players. Her skill in saving penalty shots and maintaining a high save percentage—46% in the first half—is crucial for the team’s defense. The depth of the squad also allows for players like Glauser to shine, knowing they have a strong support system behind them.
Editor: Coach Sébastien Gardillou managed to rotate his squad effectively, providing playing time to all players.How critically important is this strategy as the tournament progresses to the main rounds?
Expert: Rotating players is vital in a tournament setting. It helps maintain peak fitness levels while also building team chemistry as more players gain valuable experience on the court. Gardillou’s decision to rotate effectively allowed different players to contribute offensively, with an extraordinary 13 players scoring. This strategy not only keeps the squad fresh but also prepares them for any situation they might encounter in the knockout stages.
Editor: Alicia Toublanc and sarah Bouktit performed exceptionally well, each scoring five goals. How critical is individual performance in team sports like handball, especially in a tournament context?
Expert: Individual performances can be game-changers in handball. Outstanding players like Toublanc and Bouktit can inspire the whole team while causing tactical adjustments from opponents.When multiple players step up, it makes the team that much harder to defend against. Their ability to score consistently will be pivotal as they face stronger defenses in the upcoming matches.
Editor: Looking ahead, France will face Hungary and Sweden in the main round. What strategies should they adopt to ensure they progress to the semi-finals?
Expert: The key for France will be maintaining their defensive intensity while diversifying their offense. They should capitalize on their strong goalkeeper play and efficient transitions from defense to offense. Studying the previous matches of Hungary and Sweden to identify weaknesses will be crucial.France has the talent, but tactical awareness and adaptability will play a significant role in their success.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights on the French team’s performance and their strategy for moving forward in the European Handball Championships. Any final thoughts?
Expert: It’s an exciting time for French handball. The team has shown resilience and skill so far.If they can sustain this momentum and continue to harness their collective and individual talents, they stand a strong chance of making a deep run in the tournament.
Editor: Thank you again for your valuable insights. We look forward to following the French women’s handball team as they pursue success in the championship!