Group B: Germany (3-1) hold of Slovenia (3-1) 28-25
10:02 a.m.
The first match of the day pitted two of the most disciplined teams in the competition.
Germany needed to come up with a formula on how to get through one of the best defenses in men’s handball thus far against Slovenia, who allowed an average of 26 goals per match leading up to this game (best in Group B).
Both countries employed a similar style of play today, looking to force the shot outside of the nine meter line on defense while wrestling their way through that six meter line on offense. The result of this was a tight match, and a very even one throughout. Slovenia were slightly more successful breaking through, but Andreas Wolff bailed Germany out with some fantastic saves, even diving on the floor to save a would-be empty net goal on a fast break.
Both sides held up pretty strongly, but a quick lapse in concentration by Slovenia gave Germany the chance to put the Slovenians on edge. Tobias Reichmann provided that for Germany, giving his side its first lead five minutes into the second half with a strike from the wing.
Reichmann just seemed to be in the right places at the right time during that time, finding another rebound in the seventh minute to give Germany the three-goal advantage. Wolff continued with his good performance as well, and proved he could contribute to the scoring as well, scoring two goals off the empty net.
Germany and Slovenia currently possess six points each in group play, which should be good enough for both of them to advance. An Egypt loss to Brazil earlier today will secure their position.