The enthousiastic and inspired Netherlands gave it a very good try. But the team machine and continually high performing entity of Norway simply had even more strength and proficiency, 35–25 fixed the final ticket.
The second semifinal had a lot of ingredients to appreciate, high quality handball in rapid pace with two well structured and tactically aware teams.
Norway provided plenty of room for Henny Reistad – up in the air and apply some power and precision was a sure fire recipe to many goals.
Netherlands had a world class passing play and waited for clever openings, as the space for Larissa Nüsser to break through.
But the Norwegian solution had just a bit more stability, Reistad was supported by Thale Deila to win the duels while Nora Mørk often kept the defense busy.
Netherlands fought back ion the first tendency from the favourite to pull away and the special supporter star of the supporters, Estavana Polman could tie the game, 7–7.
Polman was determined to make it a night to remember and played on a very high level. But so did definitely Reistad, forceful and nearly faultless as so often in the major games.
With a four goal lead at half-time, Netherlands were stretched to keep within distance. The train seemed to leave the station with Norway eight up a few minutes later, but Netherlands had one more attempt and woke up the arena when the margin was halved.
Not enough to stir Norway, though. A well chosen timeout allowed the leading team to reshuffle, close down in defense and find the offensive rhythm, 21–28 after 50 minutes.
Norway put their foot down to a clear win. One question remains, can Germany muster the physique to make it a tight duel in the final?
Netherlands–Norway 25–35 (14–18)