Poland into quarter-finals of World Handball Championship
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
27.01.2015 10:18
Poland defeated Sweden 24-20 on Monday, winning a place in the quarter-finals of the World Handball Championship in Qatar.
Adam Wisniewski of Poland in action during the Qatar 2015 24th Men's Handball World Championship Round of 16 match between Poland and Sweden at the Ali Bin Hamad Al-Attiya Arena at Al-Saad Club in Doha, Qatar on 26 January 2015. Photo: EPA/Ali Haider
Speaking with Polish Radio, team member Mariusz Jurkiewicz thanked fans who had made it to the Middle East for the championship.
''During the tough moments we feel the support of the fans, and I'm glad we were able to give them something – the joy of victory.''
Polish player Kamil Syprzak (C) and teammates celebrate with fans at the Ali Bin Hamad Al-Attiya Arena at Al-Saad Club in Doha, Qatar on 26 January 2015. Photo: EPA:Gjorgji Licovski
Poland led for most of the first half, although Sweden edged ahead to take a 11-10 lead at half time.
''The key to this victory was that even when we played worse – and there were such periods – we didn't let the Swedes take a lead of several goals,'' Jurkiewicz said.
From the 38th to the 42nd minute, Poland managed to score three quick goals in succession, and they then held onto the lead until the end of the match.
Poland will play Croatia in their quarter-final on 28 January. (nh)