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What are some of the biggest upsets in handball history?

Caprice Libero

Well, as a handball fan, I can tell you that there have been quite a few upsets in the sport's history. Some of the biggest ones come to mind right away, so let me share them with you.

One of the most historic upsets happened at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. The Tunisian team, which was a complete underdog, defeated Spain 34-33 in the quarter-finals, sending shockwaves around the handball world. Spain was one of the favorites to win the gold medal that year, and many people couldn't believe they lost to Tunisia. It was a truly remarkable moment for Tunisian handball, and it put them on the map as a serious contender.

Another upset that immediately comes to mind happened at the 2019 World Men's Handball Championship in Denmark and Germany. In the round of 16, Norway faced Hungary, who had already surprised many by advancing from the preliminary round. However, few expected them to defeat Norway, who were one of the top teams in the tournament. But Hungary played the game of their lives, and their goalkeeper Roland Mikler made 15 saves, helping Hungary win 27-25. It was a stunning upset, and it knocked Norway out of the tournament earlier than expected.

In 2007, the European Men's Handball Championship was held in Germany. France was the defending champion and one of the favorites to win it again. However, they lost to Poland in the quarter-finals, which was a shock to everyone. Poland was not considered a serious contender at the time, but they played with heart and determination, and they beat France 33-32 in overtime. It was a historic win for Poland, and it opened up the tournament for other teams to win.

Another major upset occurred at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Spain, who had won the silver medal at the previous Olympics, faced Denmark in the quarter-finals. Spain was expected to win, but they lost to Denmark in a close game, 24-23. It was a disappointing result for Spain, and it was a huge boost for Denmark, who went on to win the gold medal that year.

Finally, I have to mention the 2017 World Women's Handball Championship, which was held in Germany. In the quarter-finals, Russia faced Denmark, who were the reigning European champions and one of the best teams in the world. However, Russia played an amazing game, and they defeated Denmark 28-26. It was a major upset, and it propelled Russia to the semi-finals, where they eventually finished in fourth place.

So, these are just a few of the biggest upsets in handball history. Of course, there are many others, but these stand out to me as some of the most remarkable. It just goes to show that in sports, anything can happen, and underdogs can always have their day.