Georgian handball team qualifies for European Championship for second consecutive time #1TVSPORT
Georgian handball team qualifies for European Championship for second consecutive time #1TVSPORT

The Georgian national handball team has secured its spot in the European Championship for the second consecutive time. The decisive match took place in Tbilisi during the fifth round, where Georgia defeated Greece 29:26.

Their first encounter, held in Greece, resulted in a narrow 27:26 victory for the hosts. To advance, Georgia needed only a win in this return match to overtake Greece and secure second place in the group. The top two teams from each group earn qualification for the European Championship.

Like the first game, this match was fiercely contested from start to finish. An unfortunate incident occurred early on—Teimuraz Orjonikidze sustained an injury and was unable to continue, representing a significant loss for the Georgian squad. At halftime, Greece led 14:16.

The decisive moments came in the final minutes, when Georgia played with greater precision and determination, ultimately clinching a 29:26 victory.

With this win, under the leadership of head coach Tite Kalandadze, the team secured second place in the group and earned their ticket to the European Championship.

Their final qualifying match will be held in Iceland on May 11.

In recognition of this achievement, the Georgian government has decided to award the national handball team a monetary prize of one million Georgian lari (approximately $365,000). The Prime Minister signed the relevant decree.

Irakli Kobakhidze attended the decisive match at Tbilisi Arena alongside the President and Cabinet members. The Prime Minister expressed his congratulations, thanked the players for their dedication, and wished them continued success.