Metz HB took a significant step towards Budapest after diminishing CSM Bucharest by 27–24 away. SG BBM Bietigheim still has to visit Odense HB but leads by 30–26 half-way.
Hatadou Sako was the outstanding player in a tight first half between Bucharest and Metz. The fremcjh team had to wait until the second half to increase their lead and once again the goalkeeper played a major part in the development. Cristina Neagu produced nine goals for CSM but Metz was more efficient and opened a path with some fast-paced goals after the break.
Bietigheim got the ball rolling with Antje Döll´s left wing precision and Kaba Gassama who created the needed space on the line. The first minutes in the second half was crucial, Bietigheim started with two goals in a row and had a good work environment after 17–12. Odense could have been in much more trouble if minus seven hadn’t been reduced to four after 60 tough minutes.
Champions League
SG BBM Bietigheim–Odense HB 30–26 (15–12)
CSM Bucharest–Metz HB 24–27 (14–15)