Germany claimed a hard-fought 18–17 victory over Portugal in a tightly contested opening match of the second group phase, securing three valuable points in the race for the semi-finals.

The game remained close throughout, with both sides trading goals across the four quarters. Portugal’s Júlio Duraes Ruivo finished as joint top scorer with five goals, while Germany’s Theo Nowak also netted five and Lea Witthaus added four. Hannah Heilmann and Thomas Freund each scored three for the hosts, and Celise Ribeiro contributed three for Portugal. Germany’s long-range shooting (six goals) and near-range efforts proved decisive in the closing stages, while Portugal responded strongly through medium-range finishing and penalties.

The narrow result leaves both teams with work still to do in Pool F, which also features Belgium and Türkiye. Germany take an early advantage, while Portugal remain without points from this phase.

Looking ahead

Both sides face one further match in the second group phase. Germany will aim to build on this result and secure a top-two finish, which would advance them to the semi-finals. Portugal must target a strong performance in their remaining fixture to improve their position and keep alive their hopes of avoiding the matches for places 5–8.

With the top two teams from each upper pool progressing to the semi-finals and the remaining sides contesting positions 5–8, the final matches of the phase will be decisive for both squads.

Final score: Germany 18–17 Portugal

Top scorers: Júlio Duraes Ruivo (POR) 5, Theo Nowak (GER) 5, Lea Witthaus (GER) 4, Celise Ribeiro (POR) 3, Hannah Heilmann (GER) 3, Thomas Freund (GER) 3