Matches of the day in preliminary Group 1 of the European Men’s Handball Championship showed a lot of balance, being decided on the edge or a narrow goal difference.

France, men’s national handball teamPhoto: Mateusz Janushek / Zuma Press / Profimedia

Victories of France, Austria and Germany at the European Men’s Handball Championship

Hungary and Austria opened the first qualifying group at the Lanxess Arena in Cologne.

After the first half ended in a 17-17 tie, the Austrians ended up winning by one goal, 30-29.

And the match between France and Croatia unfolded according to a similar scenario. Three-time European champions French led in the first half and won by only two goals (34-32).

In the last game of the day, hosts Germany were kept in check by Iceland with a 26-24 victory that kept their chances of reaching the semi-finals alive.

Results of the day at the European Championship in men’s handball

Hungary – Austria 29-30

France – Croatia 34-32

Germany – Iceland 26-24

Rating of the previous group 1

1. France – 4 points (67:62)

2. Austria – 3 b (58:57)

3. Hungary – 2 b (62:55)

4. Germany – 2 points (56:57)

5. Croatia – 1p (60:62)

6. Iceland – 0 points (49:59)