Austria’s Handball Women Take on Slovenia After Tough Loss to Norway
Facing the reigning European champions Norway in their second match, the Austrian handball women’s team knew they were up against a formidable foe. Despite a spirited performance early on, the gulf in class proved too great, as Norway cruised to a 38:24 victory (23:14 at halftime) on Saturday in Innsbruck.
A Challenging But Expected Result
For Austria, this matche was always considered a bonus, a chance to test themselves against the very best in the world. Head coach Monique Tijsterman was realistic about the odds but still hoped for a stronger showing: “We knew it would be difficult. They (Norway) are so strong in one-on-one situations. If we don’t work together in defense, then it won’t work. We need to push harder,” the Dutch manager stated. “We have to be sharper on Monday (against Slovenia).”
Despite the loss, Tijsterman saw positives in her team’s performance. “We never gave up and kept fighting,” she noted, adding, “I know that we will play in the main round.”
Early Promise
In front of 3,730 spectators in the packed Olympic Hall, the home team started brightly, showing flashes of their attacking potential. They successfully completed many attacks, and quick counter moves put them in good scoring positions on several occasions. Circle runner Josefine Hanfland’s skillful play also bore fruit for Austria.
“We didn’t manage to gain access throughout the entire game,” Hanfland reflected after the match, acknowledging the physical dominance of the Norwegians.
The Austrian defense, however, struggled to contain Norway’s world-class players. While goalkeeper Lena Ivancok made some impressive saves, the sheer attacking power of the Norwegians proved overwhelming. By the 15th minute, Norway had already established a 12:7 lead. Johanna Reichert and her teammates mounted a mini-comeback, reducing the deficit to 11:14 by the 19th minute, but Norway soon regained control.
Looking Ahead to a Crucial Match
The Austrian team found it tough to create scoring opportunities in the second half, while Norway continued to move the ball efficiently and find the back of the net with ease. Despite the final scoreline, Austria showed resilience and never lost its fighting spirit. They kept the margin relatively constant for a while before ultimately succumbing to Norway’s relentless pressure.
Antonija Mamich took over in goal for the second half, demonstrating her abilities against a powerful Norwegian attack.
Austria now faces a critical showdown against Slovenia on Monday (6 p.m., live ORF 1). The winner will secure a place in the main round in Vienna. Slovenia took down Group E bottom team Slovakia with a decisive 37:24 (18:10) victory just two days earlier.
Reflecting on the upcoming match, Hanfland remained positive. “Now it’s time to keep our heads up again. The decisive game is on Monday, and we want to win.”
Women’s Handball European Championship, preliminary round, group E, 2nd round: Austria – Norway 24:38 (14:23). Best throwers AUT: K. Pandza, Ivancok-Soltic, Hanfland 4 each
What were some of the key takeaways from the Austrian women’s handball team’s match against Norway?
## Austria’s Women Hearty Despite Tough Loss to Norway
We just spoke with the Austrian women’s handball team’s head coach Monique Tijsterman, following their exciting yet disappointing match against reigning champions Norway.
**Host:** Coach Tijsterman, thanks for joining us. Let’s talk about your match against Norway. Obviously, facing the reigning European champions was always going to be a challenge.
**Tijsterman:** “Absolutely. We knew going into this match that it would be difficult. Norway is incredibly strong, particularly in their one-on-one situations.
**Host:** You mentioned defense being key. Was that where the difference was?
**Tijsterman:** To a large extent, yes. When we didn’t defend as a unit, Norway capitalized. We have to be sharper and work together more effectively on that end of the court.
**Host:** Despite the loss, there were moments of brilliance from the Austrian team. What are your thoughts on the team’s performance?
**Tijsterman:** I was very pleased with the team’s fighting spirit. They never gave up, even when things got tough. They showed glimpses of their potential, especially in attack. Josefine Hanfland was particularly impressive with her skillful play. [[1](https://www.eurohandball.com/en/who-we-are/ehf-federations/details/aut/austria/)]
**Host:** Looking ahead, Austria faces Slovenia on Monday. How important is that match?
**Tijsterman:** This match is incredibly important for us. We need to be sharper against Slovenia. I am confident that we can secure a much better result and progress to the main round.
**Host:** Thank you for your time, Coach Tijsterman. We wish you and the team the best of luck against Slovenia.
**Tijsterman:** Thanks for having me!
Let’s go Austria!
