Abou Fofana faces his former teammates tonight in Nancy
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
While the U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, Europe doesn’t start it until March 28. Because of this CET is currently just 5 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of Bet MGM and/or OddsPortal.
American Athletes in Action
Pro Ligue (France)
Nancy (-5.5) vs Angers (Tuesday, 2000 CET): Video Link )
Abou Fofana plays left back and middle defense for Angers.
This is the first month in almost a month for Angers as several matches had to be postponed due to positive COVID cases.
Angers is in last place fighting to avoid relegation while Nancy is in 3rd place and seeking promotion to the LIDL Star Ligue.
Fofana is no doubt looking forward to this match as he played for Nancy last season.
EHF European League
Leon vs Kristianstad ***Postponed***
Drew Donlin plays defense and circle runner for Leon.
Leon has had 5 members of its staff (players and coaches) test positive for COVID-19 and the 1st leg match in Leon had to be postponed. A match has been scheduled for next Tuesday in Kristianstad, but it’s not clear whether the match to have been played in Leon will be made up. If it isn’t the playoff will instead be decided by just the 1 match to be played in Sweden.
The Last 16 playoffs start today and these teams will be playing 2 matches with the aggregate score for both matches deciding who will advance. These 1st leg matches today are being played at the lower ranked seeds home court so those teams will be looking to try and get a win by as many goals as possible to improve their chances in the 2nd leg next Tuesday. EHF Preview: Link
Chekovskie (-0.5) vs Nimes (Tuesday, 1700 CET)
Montpellier (-5.5) vs Kadetten Schaffhausen (Tuesday, 1845 CET)
RK Nexe vs Rhein-Neckar Löwen (-5.5) (Tuesday, 1845 CET)
GOG (-2.5) vs HC CSKA (Tuesday, 1845 CET)
Fivers vs Füchse Berlin (-6.5) (Tuesday, 2045 CET)
Sporting vs Plock (-1.5) (Tuesday, 2045 CET)
HC Eurofarm Pelister vs Magdeburg (-4.5) (Tuesday, 2045 CET)
How to watch the Olympic Qualification Tournaments
If you live in a country where there is no TV broadcast the matches should be available on the IHF YouTube Channel. Those matches can be accessed here and I will be posting a daily preview with direct links to each match video (see below).
If you live in a country where there is a TV broadcast you may be geo-blocked out of accessing the IHF YouTube Channel. This is often the case even for matches that are not available on YouTube. It is, however, usually possible to watch matches using VPN. More information on how to use VPN; What I use) (Note: I would encourage handball fans to watch matches on TV when possible as usually get a better picture, but if there isn’t a TV broadcast available where you live… what else are you going to do?)
USA Residents: There is no USA TV broadcast and matches should be available on YouTube
Canadian Residents: The CBC will be live streaming the matches with English commentary: Link
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online year round? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
While the U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, Europe doesn’t start it until March 28. Because of this CET is currently 5 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of 10 Bet.
Tournament 1 Polideportivo Pla de l’Arc, Llíria, Spain)
Standings after Day 2
Argentina vs Spain (-10.5) (Sunday, 1930 CET / 1430 US ET) Video Link
Sweden beat Argentina by 13 yesterday and has qualified for Tokyo. Spain is also expected to have a big win, but on paper Argentina has a chance. If they can pull off an epic upset and beat Spain they will qualify for the Olympics.
Tournament 2 (Audi Aréna, Győr, Hungary)
Standings after Day 2
Serbia (-13.5) vs Kazakhstan (Sunday, 1730 CET / 1230 US ET) Video Link
This tournament has been decided and this match will simply determine who meaninglessly finishes in 3rd place.
Hungary vs Russia (-1.5) (Sunday, 2030 CET / 1530 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Hungary and Russia have both qualified for Tokyo, but this match will determine seeding for the Olympic draw.
Montenegro (-0.5) vs Romania (Sunday, 1600 CET / 1100 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
On paper, Romania still has a chance to qualify for Tokyo, but they are in a big goal differential hole behind Montenegro and Norway. To guarantee qualification they have the tall task of beating hosts, Montenegro by 6 goals or more. (See below for scenarios.)
If Romania lose or win by 4 goals or less they will finish 3rd.
A Romania victory by exactly 5 goals could result in some interesting scenarios.
A 30-25 Romania victory would result in Romania and Montenegro qualifying and Norway staying home. (GF would be ROU: 54; MNE: 53; NOR: 52) Wins of 31-26, 32-27, etc. will have the same result.
A 29-24 Romania victory would result in Romania qualifying and Montenegro and Norway drawing lots. GF would be ROU: 53; MNE:52; NOR: 52
A 28-23 Romania victory would result in Romania and Norway qualifying and Montenegro staying home. (GF would be ROU: 52; NOR:52; MNE: 51) Wins of 27-22, 26-21, etc., will have the same result.
How to watch the Olympic Qualification Tournaments
If you live in a country where there is no TV broadcast the matches should be available on the IHF YouTube Channel. Those matches can be accessed here and I will be posting a daily preview with direct links to each match video (see below).
If you live in a country where there is a TV broadcast you may be geo-blocked out of accessing the IHF YouTube Channel. This is often the case even for matches that are not available on YouTube. It is, however, usually possible to watch matches using VPN. More information on how to use VPN; What I use) (Note: I would encourage handball fans to watch matches on TV when possible as usually get a better picture, but if there isn’t a TV broadcast available where you live… what else are you going to do?)
USA Residents: There is no USA TV broadcast and matches should be available on YouTube
Canadian Residents: The CBC will be live streaming the matches with English commentary: Link
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online year round? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
While the U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, Europe doesn’t start it until March 28. Because of this CET is currently just 5 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of 10 Bet.
Tournament 1 Polideportivo Pla de l’Arc, Llíria, Spain)
Standings after Day 1
Sweden (-8.5) vs Argentina (Saturday, 1815 CET / 1315 US ET) Video Link
Spain and Sweden played to a draw to open this qualifying tournament and now both of those teams will play Argentina and both will be favored to win by a significant margin. Because they tied, 1st and 2nd place will now likely be determined by whoever beats Argentina by more goals.
Tournament 2 (Audi Aréna, Győr, Hungary)
Standings after Day 1
Serbia vs Hungary (-1.5) (Saturday, 1730 CET / 1230 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
With Serbia losing yesterday as expected to Russia 29-24 this match is very likely to settle 2nd place in the tournament. Hungary easily beat Serbia 38-26 just a few months ago at the European Championships and is missing a key player in Andrea Lekic. But, as this IHF article suggests this is a different Serbian team and they know this is a pivotal match.
A Hungarian victory will qualify Hungary for Tokyo.
A Serbian victory will probably qualify Serbia, but it would have to await the outcome of the Hungary-Russia match on Sunday. A victory by Hungary over Russia would set up a 3 way tie that would be settled by goal differential.
Russia (-22.5) vs Kazakhstan (Saturday, 2030 CET / 1530 US ET) Video Link
Based on Hungary’s 27 goal victory over Kazakhstan yesterday, Russia should have no problems today.
Norway (-6.5) vs Romania (Saturday, 1930 CET / 1430 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
This match was supposed to confirm Norway’s status as the winner of the tournament, but thanks to Montenegro’s huge surprise 28-23 victory over Norway this is now the likely battle for 2nd place. Undoubtedly, Romania will be taking notes as to how Montenegro effectively slowed down Norway’s offense and will try to accomplish the same feat.
A Romanian victory will qualify Romania for Tokyo and will eliminate Norway
A Norway win will not guarantee them qualification as a Romanian victory over Montenegro on Sunday would set up a 3 way tie that would be settled by goal differential. Every plus goal improves Norway’s chances and a 6 goal victory would guarantee them qualification for Tokyo. Conversely, a win by just 1-3 goals would likely require a big Romanian victory over Montenegro. (see below for details)
3 Way Tie Scenarios
This chart depicts possible Goal Differential combinations. The first column shows the goal differential standings after yesterday’s game. The 2nd column shows what the standings after today’s Norway-Romania match based on different margins of victory. The 3rd column shows different possibilities after the 3rd and final match between Romania and Montenegro. Green = Qualification; Red = Eliminated and Yellow = Tied (with the next tiebreaker being offensive goals scored)
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
While the U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, Europe doesn’t start it until March 28. Because of this CET is currently 5 just hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of Bet MGM and/or OddsPortal.
A huge challenge for 5th place Dormagen as they host 1st place Hamburg, a team all but destined to get promoted to the 1st division
Liga ASOBAL (Spain)
Leon (-2.5) vs Granollers (Saturday, 1800 CET): Video Link***Postponed***
Drew Donlin plays defense and circle runner for Leon.
Leon took 2nd in the Copa del Rey and got a win mid-week win vs Cuenca (29-21). Currently in 6th place in the standings they take on 4th place Granollers. With just a point separating them a win could leap frog them into 4th place
Huesca (-8.5) vs Cisne (Saturday, 1930 CET): Video Link
Last Saturday Cannes played undefeated Belles-sur-Celles close for much of the game but ended up losing 17-25. They face another stiff challenge this week vs 2nd place Boulillargues.
HBF 2 (Germany)
TSV Nord Harrislee vs HSV Solingen-Gräfrath (Saturday, 1730): Video Link
This weekend the final 6 qualifiers for the Women’s Olympic Handball Tournament will be decided.
How to watch the Olympic Qualification Tournaments
If you live in a country where there is no TV broadcast the matches should be available on the IHF YouTube Channel. Those matches can be accessed here and I will be posting a daily preview with direct links to each match video (see below).
If you live in a country where there is a TV https://www.ihf.info/media-center/news/how-watch-tokyo-handball-qualification-2020-womens-tournamentsbroadcast you may be geo-blocked out of accessing the IHF YouTube Channel. This is often the case even for matches that are not available on YouTube. It is, however, usually possible to watch matches using VPN. More information on how to use VPN; What I use) (Note: I would encourage handball fans to watch matches on TV when possible as usually get a better picture, but if there isn’t a TV broadcast available where you live… what else are you going to do?)
USA Residents: There is no USA TV broadcast and matches should be available on YouTube
Canadian Residents: The CBC will be live streaming the matches with English commentary: Link
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online year round? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
While the U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, Europe doesn’t start it until March 28. Because of this CET is currently 5 just hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of Odds Portal.
Tournament 1 Polideportivo Pla de l’Arc, Llíria, Spain)
Current Standings
Overview: This tournament was originally going to be 4 teams, but Senegal withdrew due to ongoing social and economic crisis. On paper Spain and Sweden are huge favorites to advance unless Argentina can pull off a big upset. It’s at least conceivably possible as Argentina played Sweden relatively close at the 2019 World Championships losing 30-23 (14-11).
Spain (-1.5) vs Sweden (Friday, 2100 CET / 1600 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Barring an upset by Argentina later in the tournament this match will like determine seeding for the Olympic Tournament draw.
Tournament 2 (Audi Aréna, Győr, Hungary)
Current Standings
Overview: While this is a 4 team tournament on paper it’s hard to see Kazakhstan getting a win here. Russia is the defending Olympic Champion and they will be big favorites to advance. Hungary as the host of the tournament has the edge on Serbia and they also easily beat Serbia 38-26 just a few months ago at the European Championships.
Kazakhstan vs Hungary (-19.5) (Friday, 1700 CET / 1200 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Hungary and Kazakhstan met at the 2019 World Championships and Hungary had an easy 39-15 victory.
Russia (-4.5) vs Serbia (Friday, 2000 CET / 1500 US ET) Video Link
Russia is a solid favorite over Serbia in this opening match.
Overview: This tournament was originally going to be in Norway, but had to be moved due to coronavirus restrictions there. It was also supposed to have an Asian Federation team, but one by one they dropped out due to challenges related to the pandemic. Norway, recent winners of the European Championships are the clear favorites and this means that a Montenegro-Romania showdown on Sunday will likely determine who gets the 2nd ticket. At the 2019 World Championships Montenegro edged Romania 27-26.
Norway (-4.5) vs Montenegro (Friday, 1930 CET / 1430 US ET) Video Link
Norway will have their status as favorites tested by the tourney hosts, Montenegro.
Alex Binderis and his club team Volendam play on Tuesday at 2000 CET / 1500 US ET
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
The U.S. and Canada have started Daylight Saving Time, but Europe doesn’t start until 28 March. Because of this CET is currently just 5 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of Bet MGM.
American Athletes in Action
Eredivisie (Netherlands)
KRAS/Volendam vs Green Park/Aalsmeer (Tuesday, 2000 CET): Video Link
Mark Ortega is Volendam’s coach and Alex Binderis (#4) plays circle runner for Volendam
The Netherlands recently resumed play and will be playing an abbreviated NL only season. (Normally their top league is combined with Belgium.) Volendam is currently in 1st place in the 5 team league: Link
K&H League (Hungary)
Orosházi FKSE – LINAMAR vs Gyöngyös – Tatabánya (Wednesday, 1800 CET): Video Link
Pal Merkovszki is the #2 GK for Gyongyos
Gyöngyös has really struggled to start the new year and have lost 5 in a row. Oroshazi is in last place, so this should be a good opportunity to pick up a win.
2020 Men’s Olympic Qualifiers: The West has Won. No Eastern European Nations. No Balkan Nations Either
Christer Ahl has retired from handball journalism and commentary, but I still get the occasional email from him regarding the latest competition. The latest missive sent last night was simply titled: “Remarkable” and started off like this:
“Never thought I would see it happen in my lifetime: all the European men’s team in the Olympics either Nordic or Latin; absolutely nobody from the Eastern part; Of course, many decades ago, Austria was the easternmost team where handball existed; but then the idea of Portugal playing handball, or even Spain…..”
Christer, who was involved with the IHF in one capacity or another from 1977 to 2009 has seen it all and indeed this is the first time there will be no nation from Eastern Europe participating in the Olympics. For that matter it joins 1992 as the only Olympics in which no nation from the former Yugoslavia has qualified. And, prior to that Yugoslavia participated in every Olympics from 1972 to 1988.
A Gradual Shift
Yes, indeed, if one looks at the 1970s and 1980s maps below the 2020 map does look a bit strange. It didn’t happen overnight and if one looks at the maps below, it’s been a gradual shift westward. There surely are a number of reasons this has occurred, but for the most part I think it mirrors the growing professionalism of handball in Western Europe and the corresponding decreasing state support to national team programs in Eastern Europe.
This doesn’t mean that handball isn’t being played in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. One just has to look at the rosters on pro clubs to see that isn’t true. But, what has changed over time has been the ability of Western European nations to develop better home grown talent. Gone are the days of club rosters totally reliant on ringers/jokers from Eastern Europe. For sure those ringers are still on rosters… but, they are more complimentary than dominant. They help bring up the overall quality of play which in turn develops more talent across the board.
Momentary Blip or a Trend for the Future?
So is this just a momentary blip or a trend for the future. I’m thinking it’s a blip, but only because Eastern Europe is looking more and more like Western Europe as the clubs and leagues become more commercialized. Poland and Hungary have decent leagues and top clubs like Szeged are building new arenas. The SEHA league is also enabling some of the clubs in smaller nations to get better competition. More talent will be able to stay home and that will trickle down and support the development of more in country talent.
European Nations Participating in Men’s Olympic Handball Competitions (1972-2020)
NOTE: The U.S. and Canada Start Daylight Saving Time (DST) on Sunday 14 March, but Europe doesn’t start until 28 March. So USA and Canadian residents need to subtract 1 hour less than normal.
CET is currently 5 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of 10 Bet.
Great handball is available for web stream viewing almost all year long. Follow Team Handball News on social media to receive regular updates on upcoming matches: TwitterFacebookInstagram
Brazil (-6.5) vs Chile (Sunday, 1730 USET / 1230 US ET) Video Link
Brazil’s 30-24 victory over S Korea yesterday puts them in a good position to secure 2nd place in this tournament and to to qualify for the Olympics. Assuming S Korea loses to Norway, Brazil will qualify with a win, draw or even with a loss to Chile by 3 goals or less.
A 4 goal Chile victory would see Chile head to Tokyo. While unlikely, Chile did upset Brazil 32-29 at the 2019 PANAM Games. Chile lost 38-23 to Norway yesterday, but rested some of their players for the Brazil match.
S Korea vs Norway (-9.5) (Sunday, 2000 CET / 1500 US ET) Video Link
Barring a remarkable performance by S Korea, Norway should have no problems securing their 3rd victory.
KOR-BRA-CHI 3-Way Tie Goal Differential Scenario
Tournament 2 (AccorHotels Arena, Paris)
Standings after Day 2
Croatia (-7.5) vs Tunisia (Sunday, 1830 CET / 1330 US ET) Video Link
Croatia needs to take care of business vs Tunisia and then hope for a French win or draw vs Portugal
Portugal vs France (-2.5) (Sunday, 2100 CET / 1600 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
On Saturday, Portugal was up 16-10 vs Croatia early in the 2nd half and seemed to be on their way to Tokyo, but a furious Croatian comeback resulted in a 25-24 win for Croatia. All is not lost, however, as a Portugal win over France will see them qualify thanks to a guaranteed goal differential advantage over Croatia or France.
Beating France, of course, is easier said than done and there’s definitely some history between these two sides. With a World Championship quarterfinal spot on the line in January, France crushed Portugal 32-23. But, a year earlier, Portugal helped send France home in the Preliminary Group phase of the European Championships with a 28-25 victory.
France for all practical purposes has probably qualified as it will likely take an 8 goal loss vs Portugal for them to slip behind Croatia in the goal differential standings. (see below)
Top Level Scenarios assuming that Croatia beats Tunisia
FRA-POR-CRO 3-Way Tie Goal Differential Scenario
Should France lose by 7 to Portugal, Head to Head goals for the 3 matches is the next tiebreaker. Croatia’s GF is 51, and France’s GF will be 30 plus whatever they score vs Portugal, so if they score 22 goals or more they would qualify. If they score 20 or less Croatia would qualify.
Should France lose 28-21, Croatia and France would be tied at 51 on head to head goals. The next tiebreaker is goal differential in all matches… Enough. If this looks like it might happen I’ll tweet the details.
Tournament 3 (Max-Schmeling-Halle, Berlin)
Standings after Day 2
Algeria vs Germany (-10.5) (Sunday, 1545 CET / 1045 US ET) Video Link
Heavily favored Germany should officially punch their ticket with a victory over Algeria
Sweden (-2.5) vs Slovenia (Sunday, 1815 CET / 1315 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Slovenia was demolished by Germany, 36-27 on Saturday, but that loss will be easily forgotten with a win over Sweden. The math is simple (assuming Germany beats Algeria): Slovenia wins they Qualify for Tokyo. If Sweden wins or the match is a draw, Sweden qualifies.
Top Level Scenarios assuming that Germany beats Algeria
Note: This analysis was done prior to the matches on day 2. A new update prior to match day 3 is available here: Link
On paper, Olympic Qualification Tournament #2 will likely be decided by the head to head results in the 3 matches between France, Croatia and Portugal. Tunisia is certainly capable of pulling off an upset and should they win or draw against those 3 teams all of this analysis will no longer be valid.
With that in mind here are the scenario possibilities taking into account these 3 matches
Friday, 12 March, France 30, Croatia 26
Saturday, 13 March, Croatia 25, Portugal 24
Sunday, 14 March, France vs Portugal
Men’s Tourney #2 Scenarios (Assuming Tunisia loses all 3 of their matches)
On match day 1, France beat Croatia 30-26 to give France 2 points. It is also assumed that all three teams will pick up 2 points vs Tunisia. This chart depicts the 6 basic scenarios with the 2nd match between Croatia and Portugal depicted on the left and the 3rd match between France and Portugal depicted on the top.
The chart depicts the final standings for the group based on the amount of points each team will have accumulated with 2 points for each win, 1 point for each draw and 0 points for a loss. Green indicates a team will qualify for the Olympics, red indicates the team will finish in 3rd place and yellow indicates that 2 or 3 teams are level on points and subsequent tiebreakers will be required to determine placing.
Here are some top level notes regarding today’s pivotal match between Portugal and Croatia
If Portugal beats Croatia, Portugal and France qualify for Tokyo and Croatia is eliminated
If Portugal and Croatia draw, France qualifies for Tokyo. 2nd place between Portugal and Croatia will then depend on the outcome of the Portugal-France match on Sunday. A Portugal win or draw vs France qualifies Portugal. If Portugal loses to France it will then come down to Goal Differential in all matches played.
If Croatia beats Portugal qualification for Tokyo for all 3 teams will depend on the outcome of the Portugal-France match on Sunday. If France beats or draws vs Portugal, France and Croatia will qualify for Tokyo. If, however, Portugal beats France qualification will come down to tiebreakers for a 3 way tie between France, Portugal and Croatia (See below)
3 Way Tie Between France, Croatia and Portugal (Level on 4 Points)
Should Croatia beat Portugal and Portugal beat France qualification on Tokyo will be decided by head to head goal differential for the 3 matches between those teams. The charts below highlight the possibilities regarding the margin of victory in all 3 matches.
The first column simply depicts the the Goal Differential Standings after the first match, which is a result we already know, France 30, Croatia 26. The second column depicts the Goal Differential Standings for Croatia beating Portugal by margins from 1 to 8 goals
The 1st column simply depicts the the Goal Differential Standings after the first match, which is a result we already know, France 30, Croatia 26.
The 2nd column depicts the Goal Differential Standings for Croatia beating Portugal by margins from 1 to 8 goals.
The 3rd column depicts the final Goal Differential Standings for Portugal beating France by margins of 1 to 8 goals
Green indicates qualifying for Tokyo; Red indicates 3rd place and Yellow indicates a tie which would then be settled by Head to Head Goals scored.
Some top level notes
Croatia needs to win by 5 over Portugal to guarantee qualification in this scenario
A 4 goal Croatia win would also qualify Croatia under most outcomes in the Portugal-France Match
A 3 goal Croatia win leaves a few possibilities
A 2 or 1 goal Croatia win is unlikely to help Croatia in this scenario as it would require big win by Portugal over France
If Portugal loses to Croatia by 1 or 2 goals they can still qualify for Tokyo if they beat France by just 1 goal. However, as the margin a Croatian victory grow they have to beat France by a greater and greater margin of victory.
France will likely qualify in this scenario as it requires Portugal to not only win, but win big in most scenarios.
South Korea will take on Brazil in a Match that will likely earn the winner an Olympic Berth.
How to watch the Olympic Qualification Tournaments
If you live in a country where there is no TV broadcast the matches should be available on the IHF YouTube Channel. Those matches can be accessed here and I will be posting a daily preview with direct links to each match video (see below).
If you live in a country where there is a TV broadcast you may be geo-blocked out of accessing the IHF YouTube Channel. This is often the case even for matches that are not available on YouTube. It is, however, usually possible to watch matches using VPN. More information on how to use VPN; What I use) (Note: I would encourage handball fans to watch matches on TV when possible as you usually will get a better picture, but if there isn’t a TV broadcast available where you live… what else are you going to do?)
USA Residents: There is no USA TV broadcast and matches are available on YouTube
Canadian Residents: The CBC will be live streaming at least some matches: Link
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online year round? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates: TwitterFacebookInstagram
CET is 6 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of 10 Bet.
HEADS UP FOR SUNDAY: Daylight Savings Time starts in the U.S. and Canada, but doesn’t start in Europe for another 2 weeks. This means that you will need to substract 1 hour less than you normally do.
Brazil (-4.5) vs S Korea (Saturday, 1730 CET / 1130 US ET) Video Link
S Korea built up a 9 goal lead yesterday vs Chile and held off a furious comeback to win 36-35 while Brazil lost to Norway 32-20. With Norway likely to win all 3 of its matches this contest will likely determine 2nd place and a ticket Tokyo.
Norway (-14.5) vs Chile (Saturday, 2000 CET / 1430 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Norway are heavy favorites here to take care of Chile.
Tournament 2 (AccorHotels Arena, Paris)
Standings after Day 1
Croatia (-1.5) vs Portugal (Saturday, 1830 CET / 1230 US ET) Video Link
Portugal took care of business vs Tunisia with a 34-27 win while Croatia’s 30-26 loss puts them in a bit of a hole. A win for Portugal will all but qualify them for the Olympics. And, likewise a Croatia win will likely put them back on track as well.
The 4 goal loss to France, however, puts Croatia in a bit of a goal differential hole should Portugal knock off France and create a 3 way tie between France, Croatia, and Portugal. Croatia would need a 5 goal win over Portugal to guarantee qualification should that scenario occur.
France (-6.5) vs Tunisia (Saturday, 2100 CET / 1500 US ET) Video Link
France will be heavily favored, but they will need to be prepared as Tunisia is capable of pulling off an upset.
Tournament 3 (Max-Schmeling-Halle, Berlin)
Standings after Day 1
Germany (-1.5) vs Slovenia (Saturday, 1535 CET / 0935 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
Germany made a late comeback to draw with Sweden, (25-25) and picked up an important point while Slovenia beat Algeria 36-28. A win by either team here will likely qualify that side for Tokyo.
Sweden (-8.5) vs Algeria (Saturday, 1800 CET / 1200 US ET) Video Link
Sweden, like Slovenia should have no problems with Algeria. Their big match for qualification will likely be vs Slovenia on Sunday
Tournament 3 Scenarios (Assuming that Algeria loses all 3 matches): Link
From the Cannes Facebook page. Nicole Andersen talks about the using the upcoming match vs undefeated Celles-sur-Belles as preparation for big matches to come to avoid relegation
This post only has links for club matches and 2022 European Qualification matches this weekend. For Olympic Qualification information see these posts:
Note the U.S. and Canada start Daylight Savings Time on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday CET is 6 hours ahead of US ET. On Sunday CET is only 5 hours ahead of US ET . Odds courtesy of Bet MGM.
American Athletes in Action
D2F (France)
As Cannes Mandelieu vs Belles-sur-Celles (Saturday, 1800 CET): Video Link
Nicole Andersen plays defense and left back for Cannes
Last place Cannes has a huge challenge as they face undefeated Belles-sur-Celles
HBF 2 (Germany)
Werder Bremen vs TSV Nord Harrisle (Saturday, 1930): Video Link
Sophie Fasold is a GK for Harrislee
6th place Harrislee goes for their 9th win in a row vs 10th place Werder Bremen
Note: This analysis was done prior to the matches on day 2. A new update prior to match day 3 is available here: Link
On paper, Olympic Qualification Tournament #3 will likely be decided by the head to head results in the 3 matches between Germany, Sweden and Slovenia. Algeria is a respectable side and has shown they can compete with top sides (losing to France 29-26 at the World Championships) but, it is still an unlikely proposition.
With that in mind here are the scenario possibilities taking into account these 3 matches
Friday, 12 March, Germany 25, Sweden 25
Saturday, 13 March, Germany vs Slovenia
Sunday, 14 March, Slovenia vs Sweden
Men’s Tourney #3 Scenarios (Assuming Algeria loses all 3 of their matches)
On match day 1, Germany and Sweden played to a 25-25 draw, giving both sides 1 point each. It is also assumed that all three teams will pick up an additional 2 points vs Algeria. This chart depicts the 6 basic scenarios with the 2nd match between Germany and Slovenia depicted on the left and the 3rd match between Slovenia and Sweden depicted on the top.
The chart depicts the final standings for the group based on the amount of points each team will have accumulated with 2 points for each win, 1 point for each draw and 0 points for a loss. Green indicates a team will qualify for the Olympics, red indicates the team will finish in 3rd place and yellow indicates that 2 or 3 teams are level on points and subsequent tiebreakers will be required to determine placing.
Here’s what each team needs to do to qualify for the Olympics
Germany
Win their match vs Slovenia OR
Draw their match vs Slovenia and (have Sweden beat Slovenia or Slovenia beat Sweden) OR
Draw their match vs Slovenia and have Sweden-Slovenia play to a draw and beat either Sweden or Slovenia in the 3 way tiebreakers OR
Lose their match vs Slovenia and have Slovenia beat Sweden and beat Sweden on subsequent tiebreakers
Sweden
Win their match vs Slovenia OR
Draw their match vs Slovenia and (have Germany beat Slovenia or Slovenia beat Germany) OR
Draw their match vs Slovenia and have Germany-Slovenia play to a draw and beat either Germany or Slovenia in the 3 way tiebreakers OR
Lose their match vs Slovenia and have Slovenia beat Germany and beat Germany on subsequent tiebreakers
Slovenia
Win their match vs Germany OR
Win their match vs Sweden OR
Draw both matches vs Sweden and Germany, and then beat either Germany or Sweden in the 3 way tiebreakers
This Friday, Saturday and Sunday: Three great days of handball Olympic Qualification.
How to watch the Olympic Qualification Tournaments
If you live in a country where there is no TV broadcast the matches should be available on the IHF YouTube Channel. Those matches can be accessed here and I will be posting a daily preview with direct links to each match video (see below).
If you live in a country where there is a TV broadcast you may be geo-blocked out of accessing the IHF YouTube Channel. This is often the case even for matches that are not available on YouTube. It is, however, usually possible to watch matches using VPN. More information on how to use VPN; What I use) (Note: I would encourage handball fans to watch matches on TV when possible as usually get a better picture, but if there isn’t a TV broadcast available where you live… what else are you going to do?)
USA Residents: There is no USA TV broadcast and matches should be available on YouTube
Canadian Residents: The CBC will be live streaming at least some matches: Link
Would you like to know when and where handball matches can be streamed online year round? If yes, follow Team Handball News on social media for regular updates:TwitterFacebookInstagram
CET is 6 hours ahead of US ET. Odds courtesy of 10 Bet.
Overview: Norway is the overwhelming favorite to win this group and will very likely win all 3 of their matches. Brazil is a clear favorite to take 2nd place, but both Chile and S Korea have chances to pull off an upset. Indeed, Chile beat Brazil, 32-29 at the 2019 PANAM Games to get to this tournament while S Korea has been known to be a very well prepared team with Olympic Qualification on the line.
Chile vs S Korea (-2.5) (Friday, 1730 CET / 1130 US ET) Video Link
In all likelihood this is an elimination game for these two longshots. The winner will put themselves in a position to play Brazil later in the tournament for 2nd place in the Group.
Norway (-6.5) vs Brazil (Friday, 2000 CET / 1430 US ET) Video Link
Brazil is the only team with a realistic chance of pulling off an upset vs Norway, but they were inconsistent performers at the 2021 World Championships in January. If things go South for Brazil they may be content with keeping some key players fresh for their upcoming matches vs S Korea and Chile.
Tournament 2 (Sud De France Arena, Montpellier)
Current Standings
Overview: This is the most wide open qualification tournament and all 4 teams having realistic chances at qualifying. France, of course, is playing at home and is the strongest team, but they will need to take care of business against 3 teams that are capable of beating them. Croatia had a disappointing World Championships, but their squad appears to be a bit more healthy now so they are the clear #2 favorite. A few weeks ago I may have listed Portugal as a co-#2 favorite, but the tragic death of GK, Alfredo Quintana, was a real blow to their chances as he was world class in the net and their backup keepers are a big step down in quality. Still, they are an up and coming side that knocked France out of the European Championship in 2020 and narrowly lost to Norway 29-28 this past January at the World Championships. Tunisia are the outsiders of the group, but clearly are capable of pulling off an upset.
Tunisia vs Portugal (-2.5) (Friday, 1830 CET / 1230 US ET) Video Link
An emotional and motivated Portugal will look to get off to a good start while Tunisia probably sees this match as their best chance for an upset
France (-2.5) vs Croatia (Friday, 2100 CET / 1500 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
The winner of this match between these 2 group favorites will have 1 foot in the door for Olympic Qualification. As a 3-way tie (France, Croatia, Portugal) is a distinct possibility if one of the sides gets behind they will need to keep the game close for Goal Differential considerations.
Tournament 3 (Max-Schmeling-Halle, Berlin)
Current Standings
Overview: It’s hard to see Algeria winning a match in this tournament, so for all practical purposes this is 3 teams (Germany, Sweden, Slovenia) fighting for 2 spots. Hosts, Germany are the favorites, but had a disappointing World Championships due in part to several players opting out of the Championship due to COVID concerns. Those players, however, are back for this tournament and, on paper, that makes Germany slight favorites. Sweden, on the other hand, had a great World Championships, surprising everyone to take 2nd place with a roster full of newcomers. Confidence is surely high for them heading into this tournament. Slovenia had a disappointing World Championship, but came close to some big wins including a 28-28 draw vs Sweden. They also appear to have a few injuries including LB Borut Mackovsek which might hamper their chances
Germany (-1.5) vs Sweden (Friday, 1515 CET / 0915 US ET) Video Link
Includes English Language commentary with Paul Bray
A pivotal match to start this tournament. The winner here puts themselves in a good position to advance. The loser faces a must win later in the tournament vs Slovenia. Again, a 3-way tie level on 4 points is a distinct possibility so the margin of defeat could be critical later on in terms of Goal Differential.
Slovenia (-6.5) vs Algeria (Friday, 1745 CET / 1145 US ET) Video Link
Slovenia is a heavy favorite here and will look to take care of business early prior to their showdowns vs Germany on Saturday and Sweden on Sunday.
