Croatia has made an impressive run to the semifinals of the Handball World Championship, with Domagoj Duvnjak, a legendary player, seeking to achieve his long-awaited goal of winning a major title with the national team. Despite facing a calf injury, Duvnjak played a crucial role in Croatia’s thrilling quarterfinal victory against Hungary. As they prepare to face France, anticipation builds for Duvnjak’s potential farewell in this captivating tournament, which continues until February 2, 2025.
Croatia’s Remarkable Journey to the Semifinals
Croatia has achieved a stunning feat by securing a place in the semifinals of the Handball World Championship. Domagoj Duvnjak, a celebrated player, now has the opportunity to fulfill his ultimate ambition in a distinguished career.
Domagoj Duvnjak: A Handball Legend
Domagoj Duvnjak’s legacy in handball is indisputable. During the early 2010s, when HSV Hamburg was a powerhouse, Duvnjak was a significant factor in their success. Recognized as the world’s best handball player in 2013, he later transitioned to THW Kiel, the leading club at that time, for a substantial transfer fee. Over 15 years in the Bundesliga, Duvnjak has played 469 matches, netting an impressive 1,578 goals.
With an impressive collection of titles, including five German championships, three Croatian championships, and an Olympic bronze medal, the only accolade missing from his illustrious career is a major title with the Croatian national team. This World Championship presents Duvnjak with a chance to finally achieve that goal, and regardless of the outcome, it is set to be a memorable chapter in his sporting journey.
As he announced his impending retirement from the national team after this tournament, Duvnjak faced a significant challenge early on, suffering a calf injury against Argentina. However, he made a resilient comeback and played an instrumental role in Croatia’s progression through the tournament, even if he wasn’t at his peak performance.
Reflecting on a miraculous quarterfinal match against Hungary, Duvnjak described the experience as one of the craziest in his career. Despite trailing by four goals with just five minutes left, his efforts helped turn the tide, culminating in a thrilling 31:30 victory.
The electric atmosphere in Zagreb, where Croatia hosted the match, was palpable, with fans passionately supporting their team. Coach Dagur Sigurdsson praised the “magical” moments that unfolded, highlighting the extraordinary spirit of the game.
As Croatia prepares to face France, another formidable opponent that has shown resilience in their own matches, Duvnjak’s journey in the national team is approaching its climax. With the semifinals set to take place soon, the anticipation is building for what could be a historic farewell for a beloved player. The Handball World Championship 2025 runs until February 2, and this thrilling tournament continues to captivate fans around the globe.