The second round four match for Group B at the 2019 IHF Men’s Junior World Championship saw Brazil claim their third victory, as they recorded a decisive win over Kosovo. The Pan American side therefore moved to six points on the table, while Kosovo remained on zero following four straight losses. 

GROUP B
Kosovo vs Brazil 23:36 (10:18)

Brazil’s impressive campaign at Spain 2019 continued on Sunday, with their clear victory over Kosovo in Pontevedra. The Pan American team are one of the most successful teams in their group, having recorded three wins. In round four, they maintained their position in second place on the table – at least temporarily, pending the results of the Hungary versus Portugal to close the day for the group. 

For Kosovo, it has been a difficult campaign in Spain. As debutants at not only the IHF Men’s Junior, but at a World Championship, Kosovo were always going to face a difficult task against more experienced opponents. However, they have played solid games and the final deficits against them do not do justice to their fighting spirit. 

Still, the match was decided long before the final whistle. When Brazil held an eight-goal lead at the break, it was already clear Kosovo would need a significant turnaround to collect the two points. 

After he scored the match-winning goal against Bahrain in their thrilling round three match, 
Guilherme Torriani led Brazil on the score board with a tally of eight against Kosovo. Torriani also contributed an important role in defence, as he often stood as number one in the 5-1 formation they played. 

However, it was a team effort from the Pan American squad, as every single player had their turn on court. In goal, Lucas Santos and Bruno Lima combined for an average save rate of just over 35%. 

Brazil took the lead as soon as the game started, scoring the first goal and going on to a 10:5 advantage after 15 minutes. They steadily increased the difference as the clock ticked on, and by the time the last quarter began, were confidently on the path to victory with a lead of 28:17. 

Player of the match: Guilherme Torriani, Brazil