Germany 29-21 Montenegro
January 16, 2013
The German handball team secured their place in the last 16 of the world championships in Spain one game ahead of schedule on Wednesday, beating Montenegro by a comfortable scoreline of 29-21 in the Catalan city of Granollers.
The game was close in the first half, with the teams separated by just two goals at the break. Germany went on a tear soon after the re-start; with the score tied at 14, Germany hit seven without response to open an imposing lead that they ultimately held.
Goalie Silvio Heinevetter had a good game, pulling off nine saves compared to two by his opposite number Rade Mijatovic. The Germans scored with over 70 percent of their 41 shots, while Montenegro had 42 shots on goal and only converted half of them.
The Germans, coached by Martin Heuberger, currently top the group with three wins from a possible four. Second-placed France, however, were poised to overtake them if they could defeat Argentina in Wednesday's later fixture.
Both Germany and France are guaranteed a place in the knockout phases of the competition. The group leaders will face each other, playing for pride, in their final group match on Friday.
msh/hc (dpa, SID)