Montenegro Aims High in Euro Handball Championship Preparations

Montenegro’s national handball team is gearing up for the European Handball Championship, commencing on January 15, 2024. The team has been placed in a competitive group alongside Slovenia, the Faroe Islands, and Switzerland. This marks Montenegro’s eighth appearance at the championships, and the players are optimistic about progressing to the next stage after a successful qualification cycle.

Goalkeeper Haris Suljevic expressed high expectations for the team’s performance. “We all hope to be absolutely competitive in the group,” he stated. He emphasized that every match will be approached with a winning mindset, noting the group’s parity: “This is the most even group of the tournament—anyone can lose or win.” However, he acknowledged that the team’s health will be critical to their success, particularly with the absence of key players like Aleksandar Bakic, Nebojsa Simic, and Nikola Matovic.

The team has shifted its focus to physical conditioning ahead of the championship. Coach Milos Bozovic noted the importance of balancing training and rest as they prepare. “This is an ideal period to align our form before the New Year,” he mentioned, highlighting the need for players to find their rhythm.

With the absence of experienced players, Suljevic will need to shoulder more responsibility in goal. The 24-year-old has been performing well with his club, Zagreb, and he feels confident about stepping up for the national team. “My form this season has been satisfactory, and I hope to elevate it further during the championship,” he reflected. Suljevic has previously demonstrated his capability to inspire the team, and he hopes to maintain that momentum.

Bozovic echoed the sentiment of confidence in the remaining squad. “While we miss Sima and Mata, we believe we have quality in the goalkeeping position,” he remarked.

The path ahead will not be easy, as the European Championship features top-tier players and teams. Bozovic acknowledged the intensity of the competition. “We need to approach each match with a winning mentality,” he noted. He stressed the importance of setting high goals and maintaining a strong tactical and physical approach throughout the tournament.

Montenegro’s players carry an extra motivation into this championship, especially after their disappointing elimination from the previous World Championship by Italy. “We have a very good continuity that we shouldn’t break. There is a strong desire and motivation to prove ourselves,” Bozovic added.

As part of their preparation, Montenegro will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in two friendly matches on January 9 and January 11 in Podgorica. Bozovic highlighted the significance of these games in establishing a solid foundation for the championship. “We need to show a good level of play and motivation in these matches, as they will set the groundwork for the tournament,” he concluded.

With the championship fast approaching, Montenegro’s handball team is determined to make their mark and aim for advancement in the tournament.