Israel Under-18 Handball Team Falls 30-22 to Portugal at European Championship
The Israeli under-18 handball team lost 30-22 to Portugal in the European Youth Championship, concluding the preliminary group stage with just one point from a draw against the Czech Republic. As a result, Israel will continue in the lower bracket, aiming to qualify for the 9th-16th placement matches. The top 14 teams from these matches advance to the World Championship, and avoiding finishing in the bottom four is crucial to prevent relegation.
The first half showed promise for Israel, who overcame an early 2-0 deficit to tie the game at 6-6 by the 11th minute, with Jonathan Pelech scoring three goals. Goalkeeper Ruben Ouanono contributed both with saves and a rare goal to give Israel an 8-9 lead. Giva Dagani and Nevo Masika extended the advantage to 10-12 and 11-13, but Portugal regained momentum to end the half tied at 15-15.
In the second half, Portugal's superiority became evident as Israel struggled offensively, with Pelech tiring and missing penalties. Portugal pulled away with ease, while Israel's scoring percentage dropped significantly. After the upcoming Croatia-Czech Republic match, Israel will learn whether it finishes third or fourth in the group and who its opponents will be in the intermediate round on Monday and Tuesday.
Top scorers for Israel included Jonathan Pelech with eight goals from 24 shots, Nevo Masika with four, Tomer Michils and Giva Dagani with three each, Itai Gurevich with two, and Ruben Ouanono and Rom Tobis with one each.
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