Ales Pajovic on Austria’s Campaign: ‘We Did Our Best Despite Setbacks'”
The Austrian national handball team faced challenges during the 2025 World Championship in Croatia, finishing fifth in their group with a record of two wins, two draws, and two losses. This outcome placed them in the bracket competing for positions 17 to 20.
“I’m a bit sad for the guys. They really gave their hearts in these six games. We played phenomenally in Poreč and carried two points forward. Against North Macedonia, we conceded a goal in the final second, and after that, we struggled physically and mentally. We lack squad depth, especially with key players like Bilyk, Božović, and Živković injured. I motivated the team to give everything against the Netherlands, and they did just that. Had we won, we could have made the Top 12. Despite the challenges, I’m proud of the players. Two young right wings, Kifler from Potsdam and Nemanja Beloš, performed excellently, proving their potential. Expanding the roster with new talent is a positive takeaway from this tournament.”
In summary, while the Austrian team did not achieve their desired results, the emergence of young talent and the experience gained during the tournament provide a foundation for future development.
Mandatory Credit © Eva Manhart / kolektiff
