Montenegro’s women’s handball team secured a convincing victory against Paraguay, winning 34-25 in their second match of Group D at the World Championship. Following their initial success against the Faroe Islands, the team is now poised for a crucial showdown with Spain, scheduled to take place on December 2, 2023, in Dortmund.
The match against Paraguay showcased Montenegro’s ability to execute their game plan effectively. They entered the encounter with optimism and delivered a strong performance, leading at halftime with a score of 19-13. Despite some defensive lapses, the “Lions” demonstrated their offensive prowess, particularly through swift counter-attacks. They managed to score six of their goals from fast breaks, with pivot Andrijana Tatar contributing notably by scoring two goals and drawing a penalty.
As Montenegro prepares for the upcoming clash with Spain, head coach Suzana Lazovic faces challenges regarding player fitness. The young left-winger Jelena Vukcevic sustained an injury during the opening match that may affect her availability. Although the injury is not in her shooting arm, her participation remains uncertain. Additionally, right-winger Nina Bulatovic, who was sidelined during the Paraguay game, also raises concerns for the team’s lineup.
The performance against Paraguay was not without its issues. Montenegro’s efficiency in clear scoring opportunities was questionable, as they struggled at times to convert chances, which allowed their South American opponents to keep the game within reach. Nonetheless, a standout performance from goalkeeper Matea Pletikosic, who made five goals and six assists, helped establish a commanding lead.
Reflecting on the match, Lazovic opted to rotate her starting lineup in the second half, allowing those who did not feature prominently in the opening match to demonstrate their skills. This rotation paid off as players who had previously been overlooked stepped up, showcasing high intensity on both ends of the court.
The match concluded with Montenegro solidifying their position in the group, and the focus now shifts to the high-stakes encounter against Spain. The team must improve its defensive strategies, particularly against the talented Spanish backline, which poses a significant challenge compared to their previous group opponents.
The details of the match are as follows:
PARAGUAY – MONTENEGRO 25:34 (13:19)
Location: SWT arena
Attendance: 1,861
Referees: Vejmans and Volbertus (Netherlands)
Penalty Shots: Paraguay 4-4, Montenegro 6-5
Exclusions: Paraguay 6, Montenegro 8 minutes
Montenegro’s roster included strong contributions from goalkeeper Marija Marsenic, who made seven saves, and Dijana Trivic, who stood out with five goals from seven attempts. As the team gears up for their next challenge, the experience gained against Paraguay will be critical in their pursuit of advancing further in the tournament.
