Denmark had issues in the first part of their opening match at the 2024 IHF Women's Junior World Championship against Japan, but then stepped up and ultimately became the first team in the tournament to hit the 40-goal mark. 

Group D
Denmark vs Japan 43:25 (22:12)

The Asian team were never in front throughout the match, yet they should be credited for fighting hard in the first 15 minutes. Propelled by a pair of goals from left wing Matilde Vestergaard, Denmark opened up a 7:3 lead, but the courageous Japan side turned the tide and drew level at 10:10, signalling the intention of another shocker, after they clinched a win against Denmark at the 2023 IHF Women's World Championship.

However, it did not take long for the European side to regain the initiative. Goalkeeper Ida Kaysen, who replaced Stine Skovbo, started to make an impact, and her saves helped the European side pull clear.

In fact, Kaysen boasted a 67% save rate in the first half, saving six of nine shots, and her team capitalized on her heroics. Denmark conceded only two goals in nearly 15 minutes before the break, as an impressive 12:2 run saw then establish a commanding lead at half-time.

The game was perhaps more consistent in the second half, as Denmark felt quite confident, and Japan were far from mounting a strong comeback. The Europeans hit the 30-goal mark nearly 10 minutes after the restart and went on to push forward despite heavily rotating their squad. 

In the 55th minute, Nanna Vinther scored Denmark's 40th goal of the day, and her team ultimately earned a 17-goal victory. Notably, 13 of 14 Danish court players found their names on the scoresheet, with right back Clara Bang making a special impact, as she scored seven goals from as many attempts. 

After the first match, Denmark now have two points, and they will face Chinese Taipei on Thursday, while Japan  play another European side, Norway. 

Alkaloid Player of the Match: Clara Bang (Denmark)