England edge Catalonia 15–13 in Group Phase 2 decider
IKF European Korfball Championship 2026 | Group Phase 2 | 21 October 2026
England secured a hard-fought 15–13 victory over Catalonia in their final match of the second group phase at the IKF European Korfball Championship 2026. In a closely contested encounter that remained tight until the closing stages, England held on to claim the points and finish third in Group E, with Catalonia ending fourth.
Both teams traded goals throughout the 40 minutes. Joseph Bedford led England’s scoring with four goals, while Shane Buckland also finished with four and Blake Palfreyman added three. For Catalonia, Julia Soriano Milián and Laura Tobaruela Ruiz each scored four. England found particular success from near-range opportunities late in the match, while Catalonia replied with a mix of medium-range shots, penalties and running-in goals. The 15–13 final scoreline reflected a competitive contest between two sides now focused on the places 5 to 8.
With Group Phase 2 complete, both teams move into the classification matches for positions 5 to 8. England will look to build on this result and secure the highest possible finish in the ranking games, while Catalonia aim to respond quickly and improve their position. Although the semi-finals are now out of reach, both sides remain well placed within the top eight and will approach the remaining matches with the aim of maximising their final European ranking.
The top ten teams at the championship qualify automatically for the IKF World Korfball Championship 2027, meaning every result in the classification phase still carries significance as the tournament reaches its final days.
