SC Magdeburg defeats Zagreb: Matej Mandic shines in goal!

SC Magdeburg defeats Zagreb: Matej Mandic shines in goal!

SC Magdeburg (SCM) was able to extend its unbeaten streak last weekend and prevail against the Croatian title holders RK Zagreb. In a game that was anything but easy, coach Bennet Wiegert's team surpassed itself and triumphed 23:20. This encounter was an interplay of nervousness and fighting spirit that captivated the fans on both sides.

The first half in particular presented Magdeburg with challenges. Zagreb, who had not yet managed to win in the group stage, made an exclamation mark right from the start and led 4-3 after ten minutes. Despite the difficulties, the SCM only gradually found its way into the game, and a few missed seven-meter throws did the rest. At halftime, Magdeburg was only ahead by a tiny margin of 10:9.

Performances and tactical changes

The decisive difference in the second half was the strong performance of goalkeeper Matej Mandic, who shone against his former club. With a few parade actions he ensured that the SCM was able to significantly improve its game after the break. Wiegert made tactically clever changes, bringing in Felix Claar for Philipp Weber and Christian O'Sullivan for more stability in defense. These changes quickly had an effect as Magdeburg went on a 4-0 run and increased the lead to 14-9.

Despite a short drought of five minutes without a goal, Magdeburg remained stable defensively thanks to their concentrated performance. There were phases in which concentration waned, but the team was no longer in serious danger. In the 42nd minute, the referee team sent Oscar Bergendahl off the field with a red card according to video evidence, but this did not upset the SCM.

New goalkeeper raises hopes

A look into the future of SC Magdeburg also shows an exciting development in the goalkeeper position. Matej Mandic, who has already impressed at his former club, has only recently been part of the Magdeburg team and has signed a contract until 2026. The club relied on this talented keeper after regular goalkeeper Nikola Portner had to sit out until December due to a decision by the Anti-Doping Agency. Mandic therefore traveled to Magdeburg earlier than planned.

For Zagreb, however, the situation also has financial consequences. The transfer fee for Mandic will be used to sign a new player. His name will be Ante Grbavac and he previously played for Izviđač from Ljubuški, where he impressively attracted attention in the last EHF Cup season.

Weather and general conditions

Given the exciting game, the weather conditions in Magdeburg were a mild 13 to 16 degrees Celsius. Predominantly dry with only minor rainfall and a maximum wind speed of 13 km/h, the climatic conditions ensured pleasant playing conditions.

With this performance, SC Magdeburg remains on the right track and could still achieve great things this season. One thing is certain: fans can look forward to more exciting games!

For more details on this game and the players, visit coverage at MDR or on Handball Planet.