by croatiaweek
January 25, 2026
in
(Photo credit © Anze Malovrh / kolektiff)
Croatia remain firmly in the race for a place in the semi-finals of the EHF EURO 2026 handball championship after securing a vital 28–24 victory over Switzerland in the second round of the tournament’s main phase on Sunday.
The reigning world silver medallists endured a difficult opening period and struggled to find their rhythm early on.
Croatia failed to score for almost nine minutes and, at one stage, trailed by four goals. With the attack stalling, captain Ivan Martinović was brought into play to stabilise the team and provide leadership.
Gradually, Croatia began to settle. Defensive intensity increased, the attack started to function more fluidly, and the gap was quickly reduced.
(Photo credit © Anze Malovrh / kolektiff)
Switzerland were forced into playing seven against six, which Croatia punished effectively with several quick goals. By half-time, Croatia had turned the momentum in their favour and led 13–11.
Zvonimir Srna led the Croatian scoring in the first half, while goalkeeper Dominik Kuzmanović made a number of important saves.
(Photo credit © Anze Malovrh / kolektiff)
The second half saw Croatia take full control of the match. Defensive solidity and improved efficiency in attack allowed them to maintain their advantage and keep Switzerland at arm’s length.
Kuzmanović continued to impress between the posts and was later named Player of the Match after finishing with seven saves overall.
Srna ended the match as Croatia’s top scorer with five goals. Filip Glavaš, Ivan Martinović and Tin Lučin each contributed four goals in a balanced offensive display. For Switzerland, Samuel Zehnder scored six goals, while Luka Maros added five.
(Photo credit © Jozo Cabraja / kolektiff)
With the win, Croatia move level at the top of the group alongside Iceland, Slovenia and Sweden, all on four points. Switzerland and Hungary sit at the bottom with one point each.
Croatia’s next challenge comes on Tuesday at 18:00, when they face Slovenia in a crucial encounter. On the same day, Switzerland will meet Iceland, while Sweden take on Hungary.
Croatia will likely need a victory against Slovenia and hope for dropped points from Iceland and/or Sweden ahead of the final round to secure a place in the semi-finals.