Montenegro’s National Handball Team Prepares for Key Matches

Montenegro’s women’s handball team is gearing up for two crucial matches in the European qualifiers, starting today against Portugal at the Bemaks Arena. The team, known as the “Lavice,” will also face the Faroe Islands on Saturday. This series of matches is significant as it serves as a stepping stone for their upcoming participation in the World Championship scheduled for November in Germany.

Coach Suzana Lazović has made some adjustments to the squad since their last competitive matches against Portugal six months ago. While she is expanding the roster, the core of the team remains intact. “I am not one to assign the role of favorite, as anything can happen in sports. We need to prepare thoroughly for every opponent and understand their strategies,” Lazović stated. Despite being seen as the favorites, she emphasized the importance of taking each match with utmost seriousness.

The players are looking forward to a supportive home crowd. Lazović noted, “The support from our fans is vital as it provides us with the additional energy we will need today.” The lineup features players who consistently perform well in their respective clubs, alongside those who require these matches to boost their confidence.

Some players participated in club matches on Sunday, while others have had a hiatus of ten days. “Confidence will not be lacking, as the girls demonstrate mental readiness at every gathering. We must remember that each victory or defeat can change from one day to the next. The girls know why they are here,” Lazović added.

Lazović expects a strong focus and positive energy from her team during both games. “We are playing at home and want to enter the match with the right mindset. Portugal is not unfamiliar territory for us, and we are equally known to them. They will likely prepare tactically to correct the mistakes from our previous two encounters,” she said.

The team has been preparing tactically, focusing on what they believe will be crucial for success. Defensively, they aim to build on their strengths while translating good defense into effective transitions into attack. “In the attack, we plan to unveil some strategies we haven’t shown before,” Lazović remarked.

Montenegro’s quality is evident, and these two matches are seen as essential preparation for the World Championship. “We need to prepare for the World Championship, but right now, our focus is on Portugal and the Faroe Islands. We look forward to playing these two matches as a solid introduction for the championship,” said player Armel Atingre.

She praised the young goalkeeper from Budućnost, highlighting the team’s overall readiness. “They are performing well, listening, and adapting,” Atingre noted. As Montenegro steps onto the court today, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting start to their qualification campaign.