Handball-Bundesliga: Füchse Berlin eye Champions League spot ahead of Melsungen clash

The Füchse Berlin handball team stands on the brink of securing a coveted spot in the Champions League. A victory in their second-to-last match of the Handball-Bundesliga season, scheduled for Thursday against MT Melsungen, would likely seal their qualification. Coach Nicolej Krickau stressed the high stakes, describing the upcoming game as a "final" for second place in the league.

Krickau highlighted the team's mental fortitude, stating, "We are playing a final for second place. We must be prepared for all mental scenarios, otherwise we will have problems. That's why we come with full fire." He acknowledged that even if they falter against Melsungen, a second "final" opportunity awaits them on the last matchday. However, the coach expressed a strong preference for securing their Champions League berth sooner rather than later, ideally on Thursday.

“

We play a final for second place. We must be prepared for all mental scenarios, otherwise we will have problems. That's why we come with full fire.

The match against MT Melsungen presents a unique challenge. Melsungen recently achieved a significant upset by winning the European League final against THW Kiel, marking their first major title. This unexpected triumph, however, leaves their current form somewhat uncertain. "We are all warned. We have seen that they can beat top teams. If they are well prepared, they are very unpleasant," said national player Nils Lichtlein, whose uncle works as a goalkeeping coach for Melsungen.

Lichtlein noted that Melsungen's recent success makes them more unpredictable, impacting preparation. "It has become somewhat more unpredictable and difficult for preparation," he admitted. For Melsungen, who are currently seventh in the league, the match has no direct sporting implications regarding league standings. However, their European League victory could indirectly benefit them by potentially increasing their chances of qualifying for the Champions League as European League winners, should Berlin secure their spot.

“

We are all warned. We have seen that they can beat top teams. If they are well prepared, they are very unpleasant.