Phew of relief for the Blues! After the rout against Iceland on Saturday (21-29), the French reacted well by largely beating Montenegro (36-27) Monday evening in Budapest, relaunching themselves in the race for the semi-finals.
Karabatic man of the match, Fabregas and Konan sparkling
Absent against the Icelanders, the Ludovic Fabregas-Karl Konan pair shone for their return to defense. “We stayed locked up for 7 days so once we get permission to go out, we just want to get back on the pitch, with our fangs, and smash everything“, said the Aix player. Konan was affected by covid-19, Fabregas suffering from flu-like symptoms.
Nikola Karabatic did not disappoint either, named best player of the meeting.
Vincent Gérard sent off in the first half
All was not rosy for the Blues. Vincent Gérard’s red card in the 17th minute (at 11-9 for France) could even have changed the game. Fortunately, his absence brought to light Wesley Pardin, quickly decisive, like a spectacular one-on-one save in the 20th minute, as the Montenegrins had a ball to come back at 11-11.
“There is no better way to enter a match, it gave me 100% confidence“, analyzed Pardin after his meeting, aware of being “here to answer” when Gerard is not there. And he did it in the best possible way, with 10 saves.
A defeat could be enough against Denmark
Place now in Denmark (Wednesday, 8:30 p.m.), reigning double world champion, for a much-awaited reunion, six months after the final of the Olympic Games won by the French.
The issues are simple: a draw or a victory would allow the Blues to join the last four, against already qualified Danes. Even a defeat could be enough, if Iceland do not beat Montenegro (Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.).
Against Denmark, it will be a final before the hour, we are aware of it. You will have to be ready from the start, until the end. (Karl Konan, defender)