The preliminary round at the Men’s 20 EHF EURO 2026 in Romania has come to an end, with 12 teams securing their places in the main round and keeping their hopes of European glory alive.
Six teams advanced with perfect records after winning all three of their group matches: Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Denmark, Sweden and Hungary. They are joined by France, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Croatia, Slovenia and hosts Romania.
The main round begins on Monday, with the remaining teams battling for a place in the semi-finals and, ultimately, the European title. The tournament also serves as qualification for the 2027 IHF Men’s Junior World Championship.
Sweden remain unbeaten
Reigning Men’s 18 EHF EURO champions Sweden have carried their winning form into the tournament, finishing the preliminary round with three straight victories over Israel, hosts Romania and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Despite the absence of last year’s top scorer Nikola Roganovic, head coach Toni Johansson’s side has impressed with strong team performances and enters the main round full of confidence.
Sweden will now face Hungary, Slovenia and Romania. Hungary also progressed with a perfect record, while Slovenia and hosts Romania advanced as runners-up from their respective groups.