It’s raining goals at the WUC Handball!

10 goals from Maharu lift Japan to top of Group A

RIJEKA — The Zamet Sports Hall in Rijeka is an exciting place to be right about now as the World University Handball Championship continues and the action gets more and more thrilling. Day 3 of competition was all about some teams trying their best to get past the group stages, while others confirmed their status at the top of the tables. 

First up was a closely contested women’s match between Japan and Czech Republic. In a hard-fought and aggressive game, Japan came through in the closing minutes and won 29:23, largely thanks to 10 stunning goals from Kondo Maharu. 

Once again the Spanish women were involved in the standout match of the day, with their contest against Korea. These two teams know each other well, having contested the final in the last edition of the WUC Handball held in Malaga in 2016. Korea had to be satisfied with silver back then, but turned the tables around on Spain this time, with a 24:22 scoreline. 

On the men’s side, Poland played a one-sided match against Chinese Taipei, winning 35:20. It was a much needed first victory for Poland in Group B.

Romanian men had reason to celebrate against Japan, not only because of the 29:25 victory but also because of 15 brilliant goals from Adrian-Vladut Rotaru. With this win, Romania have thrown their hat in the ring as a serious competitor for one of the medals. Romania are now close on the heels of Republic of Korea at the top of the Group B standings, while Portugal top Group A. 

The full group standings in the men’s and women’s competition can be found here.