- by croatiaweek
- February 1, 2026
-
in
Sport
(Photo credit © Anze Malovrh / kolektiff)
Croatia have continued their impressive run on the international handball stage after defeating Iceland 34–33 to win the bronze medal at the EHF EURO 2026 in Herning.
In a tense and fast-paced third-place playoff, the team led by coach Dagur Sigurdsson showed greater composure and determination when it mattered most, securing their second consecutive major international medal.
Just a year ago, Croatia finished runners-up at the World Championship, underlining their return to the elite of European handball.
Croatia made an excellent start to the match, building momentum early through strong defensive organisation and inspired goalkeeping from Matej Mandić.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
His saves provided a crucial platform for the attack, which was led superbly in the first half by Tin Lučin.
The Nexe player delivered an outstanding opening 30 minutes, scoring six goals and providing three assists. Croatia’s attacking efficiency saw them surge into a six-goal lead by the 19th minute, putting Iceland under significant pressure.
However, Iceland responded well before the interval, narrowing the gap and heading into half-time trailing by just three goals at 17–14.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Croatia maintained control throughout the second half, consistently holding the advantage despite Iceland’s persistent attempts to draw level.
The match intensified in the closing stages as Iceland mounted a late comeback, but Croatia’s experience and fighting spirit ensured they held on until the final whistle.
Lučin finished the match as Croatia’s top scorer with nine goals, while Mandić again stood out between the posts with a series of important saves at critical moments.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
The victory capped a strong tournament for Croatia and confirmed their status as one of Europe’s most competitive handball nations heading into the next international cycle.
The EHF EURO 2026 final will see hosts Denmark face Germany later on Sunday.
