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Handball: Poland beaten by Hungary in Euro opener

16.01.2026 23:15
Poland lost 21-29 to Hungary in their opening match of the European Men's Handball Championship in the Swedish city of Kristianstad on Friday.
Photo:
Photo:EPA/Johan Nilsson

The Polish team started strong and stayed competitive early, but Hungary pulled away in the second half.

Hungary goalkeeper Kristof Palasics was named the match’s most valuable player after saving all four of Poland's penalty shots, each taken by a different player.

At the other end, Hungary’s Bence Imre converted all four of his penalty attempts. Hungary handled the pressure better in the closing minutes and extended its lead.

The tournament is being co-hosted by Sweden, Denmark and Norway. It began on Thursday and runs until February 1.

Twenty-four teams, including defending champions France, are competing in the 2026 European Men’s Handball Championship.

Poland will look for its first win on Sunday against Iceland.

(gs)

Source: IAR, PAP