This year’s defending champions and top favorites Norway advanced to the semi-finals of the Women’s Handball World Cup after beating the Netherlands 30-23 (12-11) in the quarter-finals.

National women’s handball team of NorwayPhoto: Igor Kupljenik/MI-PRESS / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

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Netherlands – Norway 23-30 (11-12), quarter-finals of the Women’s Handball World Cup

Norway justified its status as a big favorite and reached the semi-finals of the Women’s World Handball Championship.

Having started under the sign of balance, the first half had a special development. Norway scored five goals ahead, but in the last 30 minutes, the Dutch differed by one goal.

The break was pleasant for the Norwegians, who in the second half broke away again by seven goals and, despite the attacks of the Netherlands, withstood the emotionless end of the match.

In the semi-finals, Norway will face the winner of Denmark and Montenegro, who meet on Wednesday.

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Quarter-finals of the Women’s World Handball Championship

France vs. Czech Republic 33-22 (18-16)

Netherlands vs. Norway 23-30 (11-12)

Sweden vs. Germany

Denmark vs. Montenegro