Ranking

Results & Schedule

Belgium picked up where they left off against Hong Kong China, determined to prove to all that they will be a force at the business end of this WKC. Attacking at high tempo, though maintaining excellent control, goals flowed freely for Belgium with contributions throughout: Amber Engels’ speed and precision particularly punished Hungary to secure her eight goals. For Hungary, Kristof Bellusz will take personal satisfaction from scoring five against the world korfball superpower, though it was not sufficient to prevent his team from finishing on the wrong end of a 34-14 scoreline.

Unbeaten Suriname met Hong Kong China, who enjoyed a momentous golden goal victory over Türkiye, only to offer zero resistance in the face of a rampant Belgium yesterday. Although a win today for the Asian team was unlikely, they maintained their effort, enthusiasm and belief, looking ahead to matches in the coming days that they can focus on more realistically, including their match with Hungary tomorrow. Suriname meanwhile brought their usual zest to the match, showing they can move the ball, exert efficient control and use their more physical female players Sharona van der Kooye and Tamera van der Stelt, in a way that dominates their slighter opponents. Coach Ivan Karsters has plenty of positive tactical options against any team, particularly Belgium tomorrow, which is shaping as one of the most important matches in this phase of the tournament. Final score: 22-8 to Suriname.

Bringing their customary verve and enterprise, Suriname posed the Diamonds their most severe test so far, and while Belgium passed, they were less convincing than they would have liked. After establishing a commanding lead in the first quarter, Belgium was unable to maintain the same momentum and with Suriname sticking to the task set them by coach Ivan Karsters, the score line wasn’t the blow out that Belgium has achieved every other time they have taken to the pitch. They will want to return to their freer scoring ways if they are to defend, or improve on their customary podium finish. Final score: 15-8.

When representatives of the two major continental federations meet, intriguing korfball can develop. Hong Kong China already took part in just such an Asian-European epic this week with their golden goal victory over Turkey. This was another example. A close match all the way through, Hungary edged ahead by dominating the rebound and ensuring better shot selection and execution. However, Hong Kong China never let their opponent out of sight, competing until the last few minutes, at which point Hungary’s greater experience of tournament korfball enabled them to prevail. Final score: 24-20.