Croatia took a major step toward advancing to the second round of the European Handball Championship with a 35–29 victory over the Netherlands in the second group stage match.
To officially secure their place, Croatia now just needs Sweden to avoid losing to Georgia. Ivan Martinović led the scoring with nine goals, while Zvonimir Srna added six. Goalkeeper Dominik Kuzmanović also stood out with several crucial saves late in the game, finishing with seven in total. For the Dutch, Rutger Ten Velde was the top scorer with eight goals.
Much like in their opening game against Georgia, Croatia struggled early in the attack. Srna rushed a few shots, and Dutch keeper Dorgelo was sharp between the posts. The Netherlands held a two-goal lead and stayed level with Croatia until midway through the first half, when Dagur Sigurdsson’s side went on a three-goal run to reclaim control. The Dutch then went six minutes without scoring, allowing Croatia to edge ahead by three. Still, they couldn’t build a comfortable lead, entering halftime just two goals in front
Martinović took charge early in the second half, scoring several key goals, but Croatia again let its advantage slip, inviting unnecessary tension into the match. Despite defensive lapses that allowed easy goals, Croatia pulled away in the final ten minutes. Martinović and Luka Cindrić stepped up once more, sealing a decisive five-goal cushion.
Croatia will close out the group stage against hosts Sweden on Wednesday at 21:00. The clash will determine who tops the group and carries the most points into the next round.
