CAIRO-25 January 2021: Egypt men’s handball national team was held to a 25-25 draw by Slovenia, but the point was enough for the Pharaohs to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
According to Handball world cup official website, Egypt coach Roberto Parrondo was extremely proud of his side, after overturning a first period deficit into a credible 25:25 draw against Slovenia that earned them a place in the quarter final stage of Egypt 2021.
"Making it to that stage is big for us. What can I say? I'm happy and proud of my players," said Parrondo.
"We qualified, but Slovenia are one of the best teams in Europe, we reached an extremely good level of performance to be able to match them. We are one of the top eight teams in the world now.
"The players did really well, they gave an inspired performance. Whatever the result, we would have had a successful tournament anyway. We don't play in the EHF Champions League to be able to take that kind of pressure but we did it anyway.
"For the next game, we will do what we do for every game; we'll study the opponent and go into the game hoping for a win."
Egypt's keeper Karim Hendawy was in equally buoyant mood.
"I am extremely proud of how we've done," said Hendawy.
"Personally, I had some difficult moments but I thank the coach for believing in me and having me as part of the 25 man squad."
Slovenia coach Ljubomir Vranjes lamented the mistakes that lead to his team surrendering a first period lead.
"We played well but a few mistakes in the second period cost us the game," said Vranjes.
"I'm happy with the performance, even though we drew and got eliminated. We had to deal with eight injuries, two of whom couldn't be with us today. It's mainly stomach problems."
Slovenia player Jure Dolenec was proud nonetheless.
"I'm satisfied and proud with our spirited performance, we were close at times but couldn't reach the finish line. The score wasn't good enough and I feel unhappy at being eliminated."
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