Montenegro’s national handball team, known as the “Lions,” kicked off their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over the Faroe Islands, winning 32-27. The match, held in Dortmund, showcased both strengths and areas for improvement, setting the stage for their upcoming clash against Paraguay. This match is crucial as it could determine the top position in Group D ahead of a highly anticipated encounter with Spain on December 2, 2023.
In their opening match, Montenegro faced challenges common to first games in major tournaments. Despite the early jitters, they secured two points, which is vital for their progression. “We managed to win and secure two points, which is the most important thing,” said left-back Katarina Džaferović, who emphasized the need to correct mistakes before facing Paraguay. The team is optimistic about building on their initial performance and expects a convincing win against the South American side.
The match against Paraguay, who previously demonstrated resilience in their opener against Spain, presents a unique challenge. “Playing against atypical teams is always demanding, but I believe our quality and the experience of our players will see us through,” Džaferović commented. She highlighted the importance of defense, which will be a key factor in their strategy moving forward.
In preparation for the match, Montenegro’s coach, Suzana Lazović, is keen to ensure that all players have the opportunity to contribute. The coach’s strategy may involve rotating players to manage fatigue, particularly those who have carried the heaviest loads in recent games. Džaferović noted the necessity of maintaining a strong defense to facilitate a quick transition to offense, capitalizing on the speed of teammates such as Matea and Itana.
The team’s focus remains firmly on Paraguay, with an understanding that success in this match could boost their confidence significantly. “Winning our opening match has set a positive tone. Now, we must focus entirely on Paraguay,” said Andrijana Tatar, a pivotal player in the lineup. She acknowledged that the Paraguayan team plays a fast-paced style, similar to that of the Faroe Islands, but expressed confidence in their game plan.
The squad features several debutants, and Tatar believes that a good start to the tournament is essential for their collective self-esteem. “We have to keep our energy high and focus on our defense, which will lead to more scoring opportunities,” she added. The coaching staff may choose to give more responsibility to emerging players during the match, allowing them to gain valuable experience against a less formidable opponent.
As Montenegro prepares for their 18:00 match against Paraguay, the team is aware that every game in the World Cup is a stepping stone towards a larger goal. The dynamics of the group stage will be closely watched, especially with Spain looming on the horizon.
In other matches scheduled today, Germany will face Uruguay at 18:00, followed by Serbia against Iceland at 20:30. The outcomes of these games will also impact the standings within the tournament.
The excitement surrounding the World Cup continues to build, and Montenegro is determined to make a strong impression as they strive for success on the international stage.
