Can the Russians defeat Montpellier and win Group A?
Decisive game in Chekhov
On Thursday a hot duel is expected when Chekhovskie Mevedi – ranked second – take on the current Group A leader, the French ensemble from Montpellier. Most likely the winning team of this match will finish in the top position of the group.
This season Medvedi have only suffered one single defeat, at the away game in Montpellier. But now they play at home, are on a winning streak and are hungry for revenge.
Grams in great form
The decisive figure in the last Russian victory was goalkeeper Oleg Grams. On the day of his 26th birthday Grams saved 15 shots (41%). His form is rising as he plays equally good in the Champions League and in the Russian league.
Their victory over Pick Szeged meant a lot to Chekhovskie Mevedi as it brings them in a position to win Group A. In order top achieve that, they need to defeat Montpellier on Thursday with margin of six goals and then defeat PAOK in the last round.
The last encounter between the two teams in Chekhov was in 2006, also at that time in the Group Stage in Group A. The Russian fans would probably enjoy to see a similar game as Medvedi won that match with margin of seven goals (35:28).
Watch the game live on our free web stream on ehfTV on Thursday at 17:00 (GMT+1).
TEXT:
Ivan Ambroš