Handball: Sporting loses in Germany, but the tie remains open

Sporting Lisbon lost 32-29 to Rhein-Neckar-Lewin, in the first leg of the quarter-finals of the European Handball League.

In Germany, the Lions started the match poorly and were thus five goals behind at half-time. Ricardo Costa's men had to recover in the second half, which they eventually did, as the score was three goals apart.

The highlight was the performance of Francisco Costa, who scored nine goals and was the Lions' top scorer in the match. This result allows the Lions to discuss a draw in the second leg, which will be played on April 30 at the Estadio Pavilhão João Rocha.

If confirmed, this would be Sporting's first ever appearance in the 'quarter-finals' of the Europa League, which a Portuguese team has only won once, in this case, Benfica in 2021/22.

#andipolSCP | ⏹️ Defeating the Lions in the first leg of the EHF European League quarter-finals. The return match will be held at Pavilhão João Rocha on April 30 at 7:45 pm and we are counting on your support! 🎫Tickets here 👉https://t.co/jZVjqbD8hG#RNLSCP#ehfel // 32-29 pic.twitter.com/2bfB6BTtY0

– Sporting Lisbon – Styles (@SCPModalidades)
April 23, 2024