Handball, Men - European playoff

[kimera]

Norway - Ukraine

This is the 1st of two legs in a very important win or loose games for reaching the world championships. A week ago Norway played in the direct qualification group versus France, Spain and Tunisia. When meeting two of the best teams in the world, there was small hopes about getting through, especially knowing that some of their former key players had retired from the national squad. Still the norwegians fought hard and led in all matches, only loosing by tight numbers. Comparing the group contenders with Ukraine is not plausible at all, seeing the big difference of quality in the teams. On other advantage for Norway is that they have been toghether training for a long time now, which always is a key factor looking at the preparation for such games. Today Bjarte Myrhol is doubtful, but they have good replacements in his spot. I don`t know much about the ukraninans unfourtenately, but it actually should not mean anything. They are rated much below the norwegians, while Norway has stated themselves as a top 7 nation in the world.

In this game it is very important to get a good result. Especially when knowing that the 2nd leg will be played in Ukraine a week to come. The total will be decisive for which team to make it through. Thinking the handicap was set a little high, the stakes are in the oppsite direction, but still I see clear value on it...

Norway, -5.5 1.90 @betsson 4/10

[kimera]

Norway - Ukraine 29-22
bet won...