Germany women's handball team defeats Spain in European Championship warm-up

Germany's women's national handball team defeated Spain 31-29 in the first of two friendly matches held in Granollers. The game serves as critical preparation for the upcoming European Championship.

Despite the victory, Germany is adjusting to the absence of key players Xenia Smits, who is on maternity leave, and Aimée von Pereira, who retired for health reasons. German players Nieke Kühne and Nina Engel emphasized the need for physical defense to counter Spain's style, specifically targeting star player Danila So Delgado, who scored eight goals for Spain.

Spain, led by coach Joaquín Rocamora, faced significant challenges due to multiple injuries to key players including Paula Arcos and Jennifer Gutiérrez. While Spain managed to close the gap during the match, 14 turnovers allowed Germany to capitalize on counterattacks and secure the win. The two teams are scheduled to meet again this Sunday for a rematch.