Netherlands power past Catalonia in 48-3 Group A masterclass
Reigning world and European champions the Netherlands produced another commanding performance on day two of the IKF European Korfball Championship 2026, sweeping aside Catalonia 48-3 in Prostějov to underline their status as clear favourites.
Following their 37-7 win over Poland the previous day, coach Ard Korporaal’s side never looked in any danger. By half-time the Dutch already led 20-2, and Catalonia — ranked fifth in the world — managed to score only in the first and fourth quarters, remaining scoreless in the second and third periods. It was the first time in nine meetings between the sides that Catalonia had been restricted to single figures.
Every Dutch player found the target in a display of total collective superiority. Alwin Out, Bo Oppe and Jorien Jordaan each finished with seven goals, while Fleur Hoek and Wobbe Ran Faber added six apiece. The Netherlands’ scoring was built largely on clinical medium-range shooting (36 goals), complemented by six running-in goals, five penalties and one near-range effort. Catalonia’s three goals all came from medium distance.
The result virtually secures the Netherlands’ place in the final eight and continues their remarkable record of having won every European Championship since the tournament began in 1998. Catalonia, who had opened their campaign with a 26-9 victory over Switzerland, will now look to regroup against Poland as they fight for a strong position in Group A.
The Netherlands complete their group-stage programme on Sunday against Switzerland, who fell 26-9 to Catalonia on day one. Officials for the match were referees Piotr Jaszczuk and Alexandr Vyroubal, with Dave Mertens as reserve referee.
