Greece win historic men’s handball silver after close final against Egypt

Greece came within one goal of forcing extra time in the Mediterranean Games handball final, but Egypt held on for a 31-29 victory in Taranto.

The result denied Greece the gold medal while delivering a historic silver. It was the first medal won by the Greek men’s national handball team at the Mediterranean Games. The team, coached by Giorgos Zaravinas, continued to challenge Egypt even after the opponents opened a three-goal lead.

Greece led during parts of the first half and reached a 13-11 advantage in the 19th minute. Egypt responded with four unanswered goals to move ahead 15-13, but Greece recovered and the teams went into halftime tied at 17-17.

The match remained close after the break until Egypt rebuilt a three-goal lead at 26-23. Greece fought back through Stathis, Pagaitis and Batis, cutting the deficit to one at 26-25. Stathis later kept the team close at 27-26 and 28-27.

Egypt led 29-27 in the final minutes before Stathis reduced the gap again. A seven-metre throw made it 30-28, and Batis converted a penalty at 58:46 to bring Greece within 30-29. Greece had a chance to level, but Elnakanti scored at the buzzer to seal Egypt’s gold. Stathis led Greece with eight goals, while Tziboulas added six.