Matches in the main groups of the European Men’s Handball Championship started on Wednesday, the reigning champion Sweden and one of the big favorites Denmark won decisive victories.

Sweden and Denmark, victories on debut in the main group – Norway, second consecutive defeat

The winner of the last European Championship, Sweden, won in Slovenia with a score of 28-22 (11-7).

The Slovenians started the match bravely and controlled the fighting until the middle of the first half.

In the second half, Sweden showed strength and the difference remained constant – 7-8 goals.

Another favorite to win the trophy, Denmark, had a good game against the Netherlands, the score 39-27 (18-17).

Despite keeping the balance in the first half, the game turned from midway through the second half and the Danes attacked in waves, ending the game with a 12 goal difference.

Instead, Norway fell to Portugal 32-37 (15-18), suffering their second straight defeat after 27-28 against Slovenia.

Today’s results of the European Championship in men’s handball

Norway – Portugal 32-37

Denmark – Netherlands 39-27

Slovenia – Sweden 22-28

Rating of the previous group 2

1. Denmark – 4 points (76:54)

2. Sweden – 4 points (57:50)

3. Portugal – 2 points (64:69)

4. Slovenia – 2 points (50:55)

5. Norway – 0 b (59:65)

6. Netherlands – 0 b (55:68)

Know:

• Matches in the main groups will be held on January 17-24 in Hamburg and Cologne.

• The first two places from the main groups will advance to the semi-finals (they will be held on January 26).

• The finals (small and large) will be held on January 28 in Cologne.

• Romania last participated in the World Cup in 1996, when they finished the competition in 9th place out of 12 participating teams.

• The title of European champion is Sweden (the title won in 2022).