Alex Dujshebaev satisfied after Spain’s opening win over Serbia: “A tough match — they never gives up”

Spain’s most experienced back, Alex Dušebaev, was pleased with what his team showed on the opening day of EHF EURO 2026, as Spain beat Serbia 29:27 (19:15). The Kielce player commented on the match:

“It was a tough game. We knew Serbia are a team that never gives up. We played well in the first half and built a lead, but we knew they would come closer at some point. We knew it wouldn’t be easy to beat such a good team by a bigger margin,” said Dušebaev.

He also praised the performance of his replacement in his position, 18-year-old Fis, who impressed in the first half:

“He played better than we expected. He will give us many good matches and tournaments in the future. We’re just trying to support him, and I’m sure he will be very important for us going forward.”

Spain’s strength and chances are being underestimated at the moment…

“Only at the Olympic Games we were good; at the other tournaments we underperformed. We’re changing the older players and bringing in very young ones — we’re in a rebuilding process. It’s a process we have to follow,” Dušebaev was clear.

In the second round, Spain will face Austria. A win would send La Roja into the main round.

EHF EURO 2026 DAY 1: Germany Beat Austria, Spain Down Serbia, France and Norway Dominate