For the second time in three years and fifth time in membership historical past, SC Magdeburg are champions of Europe. In an all-German EHF FINAL4 showdown, Bennet Wiegert’s aspect outclassed Füchse Berlin 32:26 (16:12).
Claar, Kristjansson, and firm seized management halfway via the primary half, established a four-goal lead, and—uncharacteristically for matches on the Lanxess Area—by no means appeared again, sustaining their benefit with out late drama.
Regardless of having a seemingly lighter semifinal, it was Magdeburg who appeared brisker, quicker, and extra dominant. They shut down Berlin’s most harmful weapons—goalkeeper Dejan Milosavljev did not make an affect earlier than being substituted late within the first half, whereas Magdeburg’s stellar protection neutralized probably the most potent offense in Europe this season.
Key to their triumph was an excellent defensive efficiency, notably in transition, and the brilliance of goalkeeper Sergey Hernandez, who made 18 saves. Additionally they managed to maintain star proper again Mathias Gidsel largely in test—one thing few groups have achieved.
This was Magdeburg’s first win over Füchse Berlin in 4 makes an attempt this season, however it got here within the largest match of the 12 months. Whereas Berlin claimed the Bundesliga title forward of Magdeburg, and Kiel and Flensburg took the German Cup and EHF European League respectively, German golf equipment successfully cut up the season’s main trophies.
The strongest impression from the ultimate was Wiegert’s masterful preparation, Magdeburg’s suffocating protection towards the top-scoring crew in Europe, and their unbelievable tactical self-discipline and unity. However, Berlin’s key gamers—Milosavljev and Gidsel—had a uncommon off day.
After demolishing Nantes within the semifinal, Berlin gamers confidently promised there could be no “underperformance” within the closing, however that’s precisely what occurred. The loss marked the tip of the perfect season in Füchse Berlin’s historical past.
Magdeburg’s season, nevertheless, was near collapse not way back. They had been removed from the Bundesliga summit, their Champions League Spherical of 16 spot was in jeopardy, and accidents plagued the squad. It appeared like a season to jot down off. However then got here the knockout stage—a brand new starting—and a spectacular surge in type led by Wiegert’s revitalized crew.
After a number of years, probably the most prestigious membership trophy in handball is heading again to Japanese Germany!
Last Rating: Füchse Berlin – SC Magdeburg 26:32 (12:16)
Füchse Berlin: Ludwig (12 saves), Milosavljev; Wiede, Darj, Prantner, Strlek, Andersson 1, Lichtlein 3, Gidsel 7, Freihöfer 5, Langhoff 1, Beneke, Grüner, Herburger, av Teigum 7, Marsenic 2
SC Magdeburg: Hernandez (18 saves), Portner; Claar 6, Zechel, Kristjansson 8, Pettersson 3, Magnusson 6, Serradilla 1, Hornke, Weber, Lagergren 2, Mertens 2, Saugstrup 3, O’Sullivan, Damgaard, Bergendahl
