In a hard-fought and low-scoring match, Netherlands earned their fourth straight victory at North Macedonia 2024, beating Egypt, 20:17. If Switzerland do not lose against Romania later today, the Dutch side will book an early quarter-final ticket. 

MAIN ROUND
GROUP I
Netherlands vs Egypt 20:17 (9:9)

Netherlands had done a good job in the preliminary round, winning all three matches, and they were determined to make it four out of four against Egypt. And while the African side opened up a 2:1 lead early in the game, Netherlands used a 3:0 run to pull in front and take the lead.

The Dutch team went on to slightly dominate, relying on a solid defence, but Egypt continued to put pressure on them. Their goalkeeper Gihad Wael Sayed made a few important saves, finishing the first half with seven shots stopped, helping her team to draw level at 9:9 at the break.

Powered by pivot Fatima Mahmoud Oraby, Egypt started the second half with a 3:1 run, which seemed to boost their confidence. However, the European team weathered the storm, and some good attacking display from their back court players Judith van der Helm and Lynn Holtman saw them taking a 16:13 lead midway through the second half.

Egypt kept fighting hard, but they had 20 turnovers in this game, so the Dutch capitalised on their mistakes and maintained their lead. None of Netherlands' players scored more than three goals in this match, while goalkeeper Bianca Schanssema did a decent job, having a 35% save efficiency.

Netherlands have four points, and after the rest day tomorrow, they will meet Switzerland in their last main round game on Tuesday. On the same day, Egypt are scheduled to face Romania. 

Alkaloid Player of the Match: Daphne Luchies (Netherlands)