Sweden navigate tough challenge for Senegal to keep perfect record

Co-hosts Sweden faced some tough opposition from Senegal for much of the game in Gothenburg, but ultimately claimed an eight-goal win, 26:18, which secured them a main round spot. 

Group A
Senegal vs Sweden 18:26 (12:14)

After earning a sensational draw against Croatia in their opening game, Senegal showed once again that they are a force to be reckoned with at the 2023 IHF Women's World Championship. Although the African side was never in front in the match against Sweden, they should be credited for fighting hard during 50 minutes, keeping the Scandinavian side in check.

In the opening quarter of the match, the same scenario repeated itself as Sweden scored before Senegal drew level, dictating the rhythm. Then Sweden finally created a two-goal gap, 8:6, but Senegal continued to resist, as Soukeina Sagna did a great job, scoring six times from as many attempts in the first half.

A 14:12 lead after 30 minutes left the African side with a realistic chance for a comeback, and Senegal continued to fight in the second half, producing some high-quality handball. While the attack did not support Sagna as much as she would have needed, Senegal defended well, and goalkeeper Justicia Toubissa played a solid game, saving shot after shot.

With 10 minutes to go, Sweden still led by just two goals, 19:17, but their patience was rewarded, as the Europeans were fully dominant in the remaining time, taking advantage of their experience and depth. Just like two days before, Senegal had little in the tank towards the end of the game, with starters getting more and more tired, and Sweden enjoyed a 7:1 run to clinch their second straight victory, 26:18.

Sagna became the top scorer of the game with eight goals, while Jamina Roberts - the hummel Player of the Match - netted six times for Sweden, with Sweden's goalkeeper, Johanna Bundsen, boasting a 40% save rate.

On Tuesday, Sweden will play Croatia in their last group match, while Senegal, who remained on one point, will need at least a draw against People's Republic of China to also progress.

hummel Player of the Match: Jamina Roberts (Sweden)