Odense Handball’s struggles against the Hungarian side Györ continued on Saturday afternoon.
The team from Funen lost 31-32 on home court to the star-studded Hungarian squad, who reached the Champions League final last season.
That outcome could very well repeat itself for Sandra Toft, Helena Elver, and the rest of the Hungarian team, who remain undefeated this season.
Odense came close to securing a result, but too many errors in the closing stages cost them any chance of taking points.
The home side enjoyed a dream start to the match, clearly demonstrating that they had done their homework ahead of the clash with such a formidable opponent.
Romée Maarschalkerweerd and Viola Leuchter scored at will, building a 5-1 lead.
However, Sandra Toft began to find her rhythm in goal. The Danish national team goalkeeper showcased her elite level, while at the other end, Johanna Bundsen struggled to make any saves.
Shortly before the break, 17-year-old Janka Zakanyi put Györ ahead 20-16 as the visitors completely turned the match on its head. From Odense’s perspective, you could fear that the Hungarians might pull away, but the home side managed to stay within striking distance.
Three consecutive goals for the Danish side narrowed Györ’s lead to 21–20, and shortly thereafter, Odense drew level. Györ pulled ahead by four goals once again, but then suddenly began committing a string of errors themselves.
Odense capitalized on this to restore parity at 28–28, as the noise level in the arena on Funen reached new heights.
With one minute remaining, Tina Abdulla had a chance to equalize, but she missed; at the other end, Elver sealed the match with a goal following a breakthrough.