FIRST-HAND INSIGHT: With the start of the VELUX EHF Champions League approaching fast, we have a detailed look at some key characteristics. This time it is all about scoring as we focus on the teams with the strongest attack
Top five teams with the best offence
Who does not like to see plenty of goals in a handball game? Teams in the VELUX EHF Champions League need offences that are precise and can deliver at the right time.
Out of the 28 teams that start their adventure next week, we have tried to pick the five teams who could lead the goal scorers’ statistics this season.
5. Montpellier HB
Last season, Montpellier’s offence had one synonym: Melvyn Richardson. The young right back was the best scorer of the group phase with a stunning 87 goals, but obviously he later lost his lead in the top scorers’ list as Montpellier failed to make the Last 16. But Montpellier have more players who easily find the opponents’ net, like Diego Simonet and Hugo Descat.
4. SG Flensburg-Handewitt
They might still be young, but Flensburg’s offence is flamboyant. Always quickly moving they caused many defences a headache. They might have lost Rasmus Lauge Schmidt, their trademark dynamite on the back court, but newly appointed Michal Jurecki is up to the task to make up for the loss.
3. Paris Saint-Germain HB
The best offence of last season has lost Uwe Gensheimer, its best scorer, but it still remains one of the most dangerous in Europe. With an asset like Mikkel Hansen in your arsenal, you can always pose a threat to any defence. And since Nédim Rémili is turning into a serial scorer, Paris’ attack might fill the headlines again this season.
2. Telekom Veszprém HC
Known for many years for their rock-solid defence, Veszprém have vastly developed on the other side of the court as well. They can play multiple systems in attack, thanks to coach David Davis’ input. The Hungarian side can find the solution against any type of defence. Need fast breaks? Manuel Strlek and Dragan Gajic will deliver. Skills on the back court? Rasmus Lauge Schmidt and Kentin Mahé will do the job. Just to name a few.
1. Barça
It seems impossible to find a position in offence where Barça are weaker than the others. And with the addition of Luka Cindric to the centre-back position that already featured Aron Palmarsson, the danger can come from absolutely anywhere in this team. Speedy and technical wingers, powerful back-court players who provide multiple offensive options: this could well be most productive offence of the new VELUX EHF Champions League season.
TEXT:
Kevin Domas / ew