France vs Denmark: Euro 2024 Quarter-Final Preview
- The French men's handball team experienced their first defeat at the 2024 World Men's Handball Championship on Monday, December 8, losing 26-23 to the Netherlands.
- Both teams had already qualified for the final phase of the tournament.
- The upcoming quarterfinal against Denmark presents a significant challenge for France.
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France Suffers First Defeat at 2024 World Men’s Handball Championship, Faces Denmark in Quarterfinals
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– Updated December 9, 2024, 04:36 AM CET
Match Recap: Netherlands Upsets France 26-23
The French men’s handball team experienced their first defeat at the 2024 World Men’s Handball Championship on Monday, December 8, losing 26-23 to the Netherlands. The match,played in Germany and the Netherlands,saw the Dutch secure first place in Pool III. This marks the first time the Netherlands has defeated France since the 2016 European Championship in Sweden, according to reporting by L’Équipe.
Both teams had already qualified for the final phase of the tournament. The outcome of this match resolute which team would avoid a quarterfinal matchup against Denmark,another undefeated team. As a result of the loss,France will face Denmark on Wednesday.
Quarterfinal Challenge: Rematch Against Denmark
The upcoming quarterfinal against Denmark presents a significant challenge for France. Denmark eliminated the French team in the semi-finals of the 2023 European Championship in Vienna, winning 24-22. Details of that match are available from the European Handball Federation.
Coach Gardillou Downplays Concerns
Despite the defeat, France’s coach, Sébastien gardillou, remained optimistic. He stated, according to L’Équipe, that he was “not worried” or “annoyed” by the result, attributing it to his team having “used” their joker and viewing it as a “part of learning.”
Tournament Context and Schedule
The 2024 World Men’s Handball Championship, co-hosted by Germany and the Netherlands, began on January 10, 2024, and is scheduled to conclude on January 28, 2024. The tournament features 32 national teams competing for the title. The official tournament schedule and results can be found on the International Handball Federation website.
The Netherlands’ victory demonstrates their growing strength in international handball. They are currently ranked 12th in the world by the IHF, while France holds the 2nd position. This win could significantly boost their confidence as they progress through the tournament.
Looking Ahead: France’s Path to the Semifinals
Facing Denmark in the quarterfinals will be a stern test for France.Denmark is consistently a top contender in international handball, having won the World Championship in 2019, 2021, and 2023