In another all-European clash at the end of the third day of the 2024 IHF Women's Junior World Championship, a confident second-half performance helped Iceland to see off North Macedonia, 29:17, and book their ticket to the main round. 

GROUP H
North Macedonia vs Iceland 17:29 (11:11)

Both teams had won their opening games on Wednesday, and both North Macedonia and Iceland hoped to claim their second victory at North Macedonia 2024, which would have meant a main round berth, therefore a well-balanced and exciting match was expected

Supported by their loud crowd, North Macedonia enjoyed a better start, as their goalkeeper Matea Churlinovska – who made 11 saves before the break -  stood like a wall. The hosts opened up a 3:0 lead before left back Inga Johannsdottir finally scored Iceland's first goal in the ninth minute.

Interestingly, it was left wing Emilijana Rizoska who scored five of six goals for the hosts in the first quarter of an hour, with four of them being converted penalties. North Macedonia went on to lead 8:2, but Iceland greatly improved their game afterwards and started to catch up.

Goalkeeper Ethel Bjarnasen made some important saves, and her teammates drew level at 10:10 with three minutes remaining in the first half. At the break, the two sides were still tied, 11:11, which promised an entertaining game after the restart. 

However, Iceland picked up where they off and took a firm control of the match. They relied on a solid defence, restricting North Macedonia to just six goals in the second half. And centre back Elin Thorkelsdottir led by example in attack, both scoring and setting up goals.

Iceland pulled in front 19:13 midway through the second half, and while the local fans still hoped for a comeback, the Nordic side had no intention of slowing down. Goalkeeper Anna Ingadottir, who replaced Bjarnasen in the second part, contributed to Iceland's victory with some excellent saves, as the home side missed four 7m shots in the second half. 

With their clear 29:17 win, Iceland are through to the main round, while North Macedonia and Angola, who have both two points, will meet in a direct duel for the second place on Saturday. In case of a draw, the Africans will make it to the main round, as they have a +11 goal difference compared to North Macedonia's +5. 

Alkaloid Player of the Match: Matea Churlinovska (North Macedonia)