Metalurg ready to explode against Szeged

HC Metalurg are in a rare position in European handball. They have the opportunity to join fierce rivals and fellow Skopje side Vardar in Group C of the VELUX EHF Champions League.

However, to reach this stage, the Macedonians will first have to overcome the challenge of Pick Szeged in the wild card play-off which will be streamed live on ehfTV on Wednesday, 28 August at 19:00 hrs. CET.

Metalurg will be entering the competition for the fourth consecutive season, while Pick Szeged will be looking to reach the competition proper for the tenth consecutive season.

The Macedonians have not played too many test matches in pre-season, which could be considered a disadvantage come game day, but not everyone agrees.

“It can be positive, because the players are eager to play and are expected to "explode" in the match.  know about them cannot be an indicator of their form. Surely there will be quite a change in their game, says Metalurg line player Vanco Dimovski.

Dangerous opponent

Metalurg, as a quarter-finalist in the competition last season, should be the favourites on paper. However, Pick Szeged are a constant presence in the competition and new coach Jual Carlos Pastor has brought Garsia Parondo and Elizaga Mindeguia with him from Spain, which will make them a dangerous opponent.

“Pick Szeged are in a different situation to the last few years, with new players and coaches. I think Pick Szeged will be stronger and they look like a real team. They play fast handball, I think the biggest strength is their transition, from defence to attack,” says Lino Červar.

“The defence should again be the main weapon. A five or six goal lead would be easier to travel to Hungary,” said Macedonian back court player Ace Jonovski.

Metalurg’s attack this season should be stronger with Russian international Pavel Atman, and several more reinforcements.

“Pick Szeged are a serious team, continuity in the VELUX EHF Champions League. We have to fight for every goal and every attack to realise.

“This is a knockout game and means a lot to us, every goal and every save. I hope the team will explode in the game,” concludes club talisman Naumce Mojsovski.