The first part of the game was completely controlled by the Netherlands that, with very strong strategies both attacking and defensive, has achieved a great advantage (17-6). Spain realized they had to win the second half and proved stronger, with an improved strategy, however, they lost for two goals (20-18).
“In the second part, had to give everything and be stronger because if we didn’t, we were going out,” said the player number 13 of the Spanish team, Blanco Cortes.
The coach explains that the defence of the Netherlands prevented Spain to score, “our attacks did not work out. In the second part we changed the strategy and the players. ” However, he was satisfied to reach the second place. “Well, we got the silver medal.”
It was a surprising result for the Dutch coach who expected the game to be decided in shootout. She also states that his team felt threatened by Spain only “in the last two minutes of the second half, Spain was very close.”
When asked about the strength of the Dutch side, she does not hide the pride and explains that there. “Everybody counts in our team. We have a great defence. Everybody can play in every place, and hat is a strength of our team”
The Netherlands win the match in the final seconds in a counterattack through a long shot directed to the opposing goal, which was empty.
Both teams are going to the U17 Beach Handball World Championship.