- by croatiaweek
- January 21, 2026
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(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Despite a heavy defeat against one of the tournament hosts, Croatia remains firmly in the race for a place in the semi-finals of the EHF EURO 2026 handball championship.
After dramatic and hard-fought victories over Georgia (32–29) and a composed win against the Netherlands (35–29), Croatia suffered a 33–25 (17–13) defeat to Sweden in Malmö on Wednesday night.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
The loss means Croatia progresses to the main round without carrying any points, but qualification hopes are still alive.
Croatia advance as group runners-up
Croatia finished second in Group E, behind Sweden, who carry two points into the next phase. Coach Dagur Sigurdsson’s side now moves into Main Round Group II, which also includes teams advancing from Groups D and F.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
Joining Croatia in Group II are:
• Iceland (2 points carried forward)
• Slovenia (2 points carried forward)
• Switzerland
• Hungary
With several teams starting level or close on points, the group remains wide open. Croatia will need a strong and consistent run to stay in contention.
Four wins could secure a semi-final place
Croatia faces a demanding schedule in Malmö Arena, where all main round matches will be played. While official kick-off times are yet to be confirmed by the EHF, the matchdays and opponents are known.
Croatia’s main round fixtures:
• Friday – Croatia vs Iceland
• Sunday – Croatia vs Switzerland
• Tuesday – Croatia vs Slovenia
• Wednesday, 28 January – Croatia vs Hungary
Matches will be played at 15:30, 18:00 or 20:30.