- by croatiaweek
- January 19, 2026
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(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Croatia secured a crucial victory at the EHF EURO 2026 Handball Championship on Monday night, defeating the Netherlands 35–29 to book their place in the competition’s Main Round.
Knowing the importance of the match, Croatia delivered a composed and disciplined performance in the second group-stage encounter, controlling the game for long periods and stepping up when it mattered most.
The opening half was competitive, with Croatia holding a narrow 15–13 lead at the break.
While the Netherlands stayed within reach, Croatia showed greater efficiency in attack and solidity in defence, allowing them to gradually pull away in the second half.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Goalkeeper Kumanović played a key role in the victory, producing a series of important saves at critical moments and giving Croatia the platform to extend their advantage.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
In attack, Ivan Martinović led the scoring with an impressive nine goals, while Srna finished with six. Luka Cindrić added three, while Šoštarić scored five.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Croatia’s final group match is against Sweden on Wednesday.
Croatia will now turn their focus to that final group encounter before the Main Round, aiming to carry momentum and confidence forward as the championship moves into its decisive stages. Croatia beat Georgia in their first match.