Montenegro’s Handball Team Sets Ambitious Goals for Euro 2024

Montenegro’s handball team has launched preparations for the upcoming European Championship, which begins on January 15, 2024. The team, known as the “Lions,” is poised to compete in a balanced group that includes Slovenia, the Faroe Islands, and Switzerland. This marks Montenegro’s eighth appearance at the European Championships, following a successful qualification campaign that has built optimism among players and fans alike.

Haris Suljević, the team’s goalkeeper, expressed confidence in the squad’s potential. “We are all hopeful that we will be absolutely competitive in this group,” he stated. “Every match will be a battle for victory. This group is the most balanced of all the championships—against any team, we can lose or win.” The main challenge, according to Suljević, will be maintaining the health of the players. He noted that both Aleksandar Bakić and Nebojša Simić will not be available, which adds pressure on the remaining squad.

The team’s preparations will focus heavily on physical conditioning leading up to the championship. Miloš Božović, the coach, highlighted the importance of balancing rest and training during this period. “We have players who need rest and some who need more training,” he explained. “This time before the New Year is crucial for us to prepare and align our performance.”

As the sole goalkeeper in a tight spot, Suljević will carry an added weight on his shoulders. The 24-year-old has been performing well this season with his club in Zagreb. “My form this season is quite satisfactory, and I hope to reach an even higher level at the European Championship,” he remarked. Suljević referenced the motivational boost that representing the national team provides compared to club play. “This is a whole different level; the motivation is much greater.”

The team’s confidence is reflected in their camaraderie and belief in each other, even in the absence of key players. Bozović reassured fans of the team’s strength at the goalkeeper position despite the setbacks. “We believe we have quality in this position,” he said.

Looking ahead, Bozović acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead. “It will not be easy; these are tournaments that gather the best players in Europe,” he said. “Every team is tactically, physically, and technically at a high level. We must approach every match with the mindset to win.” He emphasized the importance of setting high goals, stating that they believe they can dictate the pace in all three matches.

Montenegro’s players are also driven by a desire to redeem themselves after a disappointing absence from the last World Championship, where they were shockingly eliminated by Italy in the qualifying round. Bozović noted, “This is a very important moment for us. We have a strong continuity that we should not interrupt. There is a strong desire and motivation to perform well.”

In preparation for the European Championship, Montenegro will play two friendly matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina on January 9 and January 11 in Podgorica. Bozović emphasized the significance of these matches, stating, “We need to show good form and motivation in the games against Bosnia, which will lay the groundwork for the championship.”

As the team gears up for the tournament, the anticipation among players and fans is palpable, with hopes high for a successful campaign in the European Championship.