Back-and-forth battle in Romania
The Korean women's under-18 team hit the ground running but found it tough at Sala Polivalenta in Cryova, Romania. The match, part of the first round of Group B qualifying for the 11th World Women's Youth Handball Championship, unfolded on the 29th local time. Coach Park Jung-jin led his squad into an intense 60-minute clash that never let up. From the opening moments, the game featured constant back-and-forth action. Denmark took a quick lead, 5-3, before South Korea made a strong push to even the score at 7-7. Through smart use of a 7-on-6 attack and a 3-3 defensive setup, Korea managed to pull ahead again, briefly holding a 10-8 advantage. However, Denmark didn't back down, as their goalkeeper Thilde Ladegaard Skov stepped up with a series of key saves to reestablish their team's presence.
South Korea keeps it close but falls short
As the second half began, the tension remained high. Denmark clung to a lead of about two goals throughout the period. South Korea, however, refused to give up the fight. In the 42nd minute, Daegu High School's Kang Min-ji scored a goal that tied the game at 21-21, rekindling hope for Korea. What followed was a dramatic exchange of points, with both teams matching each other goal for goal. At one point, South Korea edged ahead, 27-25, but Denmark swiftly answered, tying the match again. The contest remained in flux, with neither side willing to lose control as the final minutes approached.
Despite Korea's hard work and strong efforts, the final stretch proved costly. A string of mistakes from the home team provided Denmark with the openings it needed. The score settled at 33-32 in Denmark's favor, continuing their historical edge over South Korea, which marks their fifth win at this level in youth championships.
Key performers on both sides
Denmark's Mille Spellerberg stood out with an impressive tally of nine goals, making her the game's standout and the match's most valuable player. South Korea's offensive firepower was led by Kim Eun-yul from Jungshin Girls' High School, who also scored nine times. Kang Min-ji added six points, including a vital equalizer in the second half that shifted the momentum back in Korea's favor.
This early loss presents a challenge for South Korea as they push through the preliminary stages of the tournament. Their next match is against the Czech Republic, while Denmark will face Mexico in a crucial contest to strengthen their group standing. [Kim Yongpil, MK Sports Reporter]