Lokomotiva and Podravka to contest ninth straight Croatian Cup final

The Croatian Women's Handball Cup final will once again feature a showdown between Lokomotiva and Podravka Vegeta, marking their ninth consecutive meeting in the championship match. This long-standing rivalry continues a tradition that has seen these two dominant clubs face off for the title since 2016, with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Podravka Vegeta boasts an impressive record, having secured 27 cup titles throughout their history. Lokomotiva, while having won fewer titles overall with six, has been a formidable opponent in recent finals, clinching the cup three times during their streak of consecutive final appearances. Their most recent victory was in 2022.

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Congratulations to the girls on reaching the final, which was expected. Perhaps not in the way it unfolded, but we must acknowledge that our girls were inspired and in good spirits, while the Bjelovar team played weakened due to numerous injuries.

In the semifinals, Podravka Vegeta delivered a commanding performance, defeating Bjelovar with a decisive score of 50-21. Despite playing with a depleted squad, Podravka's players, including Katja Vuković who scored 11 goals, showcased strong offensive capabilities. Goalkeepers Petra Marinović and Antonija Tucaković combined for 16 saves.

Lokomotiva also advanced to the final with a convincing win, defeating Sinj 39-28. While Lokomotiva is a regular participant in the cup finals, this was a historic first appearance for Sinj at the Handball Festival. Lokomotiva entered the match with some players unavailable, including Ana Malec.

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I want to congratulate my girls on reaching the final. We were strong in defense and scored fast goals, with a lot of rotation and freshness throughout the game. That's why we scored so many goals. Saturday is the final, one of the most important matches of the season. We want to win the double crown and lift the Cup champions trophy.