Spain and France Advance to IHF Women’s Youth World Championship Semi-Finals

Spain secured their first-ever semi-finals berth at the IHF Women’s Youth World Championship, achieving their sixth consecutive victory at China 2024, by decisively defeating Japan with a score of 32:23.

France also reached the semi-finals for the fourth time in their history and the first since 2010, overcoming Germany in a strong defensive performance, winning 25:23.

In the match against Japan, Spain, a team seen as a dark horse in the tournament, showcased their potential coming off from the W17 EHF Championship, which is the second European division for younger age categories. Their victory over Japan highlighted their journey in China 2024, where they have secured six impressive wins, solidifying their position as serious title contenders.

Spain’s goalkeeper, Goundo Gassama Cissokho, made seven saves in the first half, achieving a saving efficiency of 37%. Marta Regordan Silva, a standout player for Spain in the tournament thus far, contributed five goals and one assist. A critical 10:2 scoring run effectively decided the match, as Japan struggled to match Spain’s offensive and defensive performance.

With a six-goal advantage at halftime, Spain maintained their lead in the second half, receiving additional support from back player Belen Rodriguez Lario, who scored seven goals and provided two assists. This victory marks Spain’s best-ever finish in the competition, surpassing their previous performance of finishing fifth in 2008 and 2010.

France bounced back from their prior loss against the Netherlands and successfully defeated Japan two days earlier. They ended up finishing first in their main round group and faced Germany in their quarter-final match. Throughout the match, Germany attempted to stay competitive, never trailing by more than five goals.

France took an early lead at 7:3 after 15 minutes, forcing Germany to catch up. However, Germany faced difficulties with a total of 21 turnovers, contributing to France’s victory. Despite strong efforts from Germany’s captain, Kim Ott, who scored six goals, they fell short as France maintained their lead.

As the match approached its conclusion, France led by one goal. Prunelle Kingué, named Player of the Match, scored another goal for France, allowing them to secure a 25:23 victory with just seven seconds left in the match. France has previously reached the semi-finals in the years 2006, 2008, and 2010, and they have enjoyed a successful run in 2024, following their senior team’s silver medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The next phase of the championship will see France face Denmark, while Spain will compete against Hungary, both teams remaining unbeaten in the tournament as they vie for a place in the finals.