THW Kiel have reached the EHF European League final after a dramatic semi-final victory over Montpellier. The German giants won 29–28, avenging last year’s semi-final defeat against the same opponents.
The match was decided in the final seconds when goalkeeper Andreas Wolff produced a spectacular double save to secure Kiel’s place in the final.
Kiel made a strong start and took control during the first half. Despite numerous technical errors from both sides, Wolff made the difference with several crucial saves. The German international stopped seven shots before the break and helped his team build a four-goal lead at 12–8 after 21 minutes.
Kiel led 15–12 at half-time, but Montpellier fought back and took control early in the second half. The German side responded well and regained the lead before the French club levelled the score at 28–28 with two minutes remaining.
With 31 seconds left on the clock, Eric Johansson scored what proved to be the winning goal for 29–28. Montpellier had one final opportunity to equalise, but Wolff came up with a decisive double save to seal Kiel’s place in the final.
Wolff finished the match with 13 saves, while Johansson was Kiel’s top scorer with six goals.