TM Benidorm rings the bell in Hungary and keeps its European hopes alive (32-33)
In the Europa League group phase last week, the Hungarian team Ferecvaro faced a tough test while TM Handball Benidorm prepared for a Tuesday showdown at 20:45 inside Palau L Illa, aiming for a breakthrough after a narrow setback against Flensburg-Handewitt.
The German side lead the group and stand among the tournament’s favorites. Benidorm pressed hard in the opening round on German soil, grabbing a three-goal advantage by halftime. Yet the encounter stretched beyond their limits as Flensburg-Handewitt capitalized on every opportunity, sealing a 35-30 win in the end.
This clash serves as a mirror for Fernando Latorre’s squad, which travels tonight to face a rival with a historic pedigree in European competition. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining a high gear and playing without fear, framing the night as both a professional challenge and a social celebration for the club and city.
“A high-caliber and prestigious match for the club, the city, and the country against an opponent of Flensburg’s caliber is a rare opportunity”, recalls the Benidorm coach. “It’s going to be a good day for the team, and we will try to compete fully, though we know the difficulty and the fatigue we carry. We approach the game ready to give our best.”
Benidorm will lean on the experience of Lithuanian playmaker Rolandas Bernatonis and Portuguese back Ruben Santos, who have faced injuries and tough schedules in recent weeks. Further complicating the squad’s plans is Mladen Sotiche, who remains away in Serbia for bureaucratic clearance ahead of his return. The group is closely watching the physical toll as the campaign advances, with players balancing recovery and form to keep the European dream alive.
With each match, Benidorm reinforces the belief that they can challenge the continent’s top teams. The team’s supporters look forward to a contest that tests strategy, endurance, and character, hoping to honour the club’s traditions and push toward a successful European run. This night in Hungary will offer more than just a game; it will be a statement about the club’s ambition and its role within the broader European handball landscape.
As the season unfolds, the players are reminded that every point matters in the tight group standings. The coaching staff remains focused on execution, transition play, and maintaining defensive intensity against a Flensburg side known for its pace and precision. The squad’s aim is clear: compete relentlessly, learn from each moment, and safeguard a pathway to the knockout rounds where the team can showcase its growth on a larger stage. The road ahead may be steep, but the belief within the locker room remains steadfast and measured, ready to meet the challenges head-on and prove their season is building toward something meaningful. The journey continues, with the next test looming close on the horizon and the fans eager to witness a performance that could redefine Benidorm’s European chapter. This update is shared to reflect ongoing developments and the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level in European handball. (Attribution: team press materials and match previews from TM Benidorm media relations)