Denmark and Spain shared the points in a thrilling opening-round clash in the EHF EURO Cup. The Danes scored the final two goals to rescue a 28–28 draw on home soil in Herning.
Spain made the stronger start, with goalkeeper Sergey Hernández producing several important saves to help the visitors establish an 8–5 lead. However, Denmark responded with a 9–3 run to turn the game around and take a 16–13 advantage into half-time.
The hosts maintained their lead for much of the second half, supported by an impressive performance from Emil Nielsen between the posts. Spain refused to back down, though, and eventually drew level at 22–22 in the 49th minute.
A dramatic finish followed as the visitors moved 28–26 ahead with just two minutes remaining. Denmark fought back to equalise and even had opportunities to snatch victory in the closing seconds, but neither Johan Hansen nor Simon Pytlick could find the winning goal.
Despite missing the chance to claim both points, Danish line player Magnus Saugstrup felt the result reflected the balance of the match.
– It’s a tough game against Spain, and they fight until the end. But today a draw is a fair result, Saugstrup said.