World Championship opener: Germany defeat Iceland
The women’s Handball World Championship got under way in Stuttgart yesterday, with Germany taking their first two points of the tournament in the match against Iceland.
Stuttgart (dpa/d.de) – Germany’s women opened their World Championship campaign with a 32–25 (18–14) win over Iceland, prompting jubilant celebrations on the court in Stuttgart. The performance by Markus Gaugisch’s side fell short of the hoped-for early showcase, but the DHB team nevertheless secured the two points they had firmly targeted.
In front of more than 5,500 spectators, back-court player Alina Grijseels led the scoring with seven goals, while right-wing Jenny Behrend and Nieke Kühne added five each. Germany are looking to take home their first medal in 18 years. “The atmosphere was outstanding. We managed to get things going here and enjoy the moment,” said Grijseels.
Thirty-two nations are competing for the women’s World Championship title until 14 December. This year’s tournament is being co-hosted by Germany and the Netherlands, with France defending the title. The new world champions will be crowned in Rotterdam on 14 December. Matches are being played across five venues: Stuttgart, Trier, Dortmund and ’s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch).
