Montenegro’s Handball Team Aims for Victory Against Portugal

Montenegro’s national handball team is set to face Portugal today at the Bemaks Arena as they kick off their European qualifying campaign. The match, along with a subsequent game against the Faroe Islands on Saturday, is crucial for the team’s preparations ahead of the Women’s World Championship in Germany later this month.

The squad, often referred to as the “Lions,” has undergone some changes since their last competitive matches six months ago against Portugal. Suzana Lazović, the head coach, is expanding the team’s roster while retaining its core structure. These two qualifying matches provide an opportunity for players to gain confidence and experience before the global tournament.

“I am not someone who enjoys being labeled as a favorite because anything can happen in sports,” said Lazović. “We must prepare thoroughly for each opponent, understanding their systems and how they plan to approach the match. Despite being favored, we must treat every game with the utmost seriousness.”

The atmosphere in the arena is expected to be electrifying, with the team eager for strong support from fans. “The energy from our supporters is vital; it gives us the extra boost we need,” Lazović added. The roster includes players who consistently perform well in their clubs, while others seek to enhance their confidence through these international fixtures.

Some players have just played matches over the weekend, while others have not competed in over ten days. Nevertheless, Lazović expressed confidence in her team’s mental readiness, emphasizing that “each victory or defeat can change from one day to the next. The players know why they are here.”

In preparation for both matches, Lazović expects her team to maintain focus and high energy levels. “Playing at home, we want to enter the game with the right mindset. Portugal is not unknown to us, nor are we to them. They will likely have tactical adjustments to correct their previous performances against us. We have prepared strategically for what we believe will be decisive in the game.”

The Montenegrin team’s defensive strategy will play a vital role, with an emphasis on transitioning from a strong defense to an effective attack. “We plan to showcase some new strategies in our offense that we haven’t revealed yet,” Lazović stated.

The quality is undoubtedly in favor of the Montenegrin team, and these matches serve as a critical lead-up to the World Championship. “While we must prepare for the Championship, our current focus is on Portugal and the Faroe Islands. After a long break, I expect us to perform well in these two matches as a strong start to the tournament,” said Armel Atingre, a key player in the lineup.

Atingre also praised the young goalkeeper from Budućnost, highlighting the team’s collective effort and willingness to learn from each other. The coming matches represent a significant opportunity for the Montenegrin squad, and their performance could set the tone for the challenges ahead in November.