Magdeburg vs. Berlin: Handball's new classic emerges in Champions League semi-final

The intense rivalry between SC Magdeburg and Füchse Berlin is rapidly establishing itself as the new benchmark in German handball, potentially eclipsing the historical duels between THW Kiel and SG Flensburg-Handewitt. These two clubs, currently dominating the German Handball League (HBL) and European competitions, are set to clash in a highly anticipated Champions League semi-final this Saturday.

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Magdeburg against Berlin is to a modern classic become, both in Germany as well as in Europe.

Magdeburg, the reigning German champions and Champions League winners, will face Berlin, the league's runner-up and cup winner. This matchup represents a rematch of last year's final, where Magdeburg secured a decisive victory. Füchse's star player, Mathias Gidsel, described the encounter as a "modern classic" and an "unbelievable rivalry," highlighting its significance both domestically and internationally.

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The SC Magdeburg and the Füchse Berlin are in every game favored, so they are also in this semi-final of the Champions League both favorites. I expect a close game, which will only be decided in the last actions.

Experts anticipate a close contest, with national coach Alfred Gislason stating that both teams are favorites and the game will likely be decided in the final moments. The semi-final, held in Cologne's arena, dubbed the "Cathedral of Handball", will be attended by approximately 20,000 fans. Gidsel referred to the event, which also includes the other semi-final between Aalborg HB and FC Barcelona, as the "Super Bowl of handball," where "giants meet."

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The best that German handball has to offer.

Commentators like Stefan Kretzschmar have hailed the Magdeburg-Berlin clash as "the best that German handball has to offer." While Gislason acknowledged their current prominence, he noted that Germany's strength lies in its diverse top-tier rivalries. The clubs also represent different facets of German handball: Magdeburg boasts a long tradition and a strong fan base dating back to the GDR era, while Füchse embodies the modern rise of a capital city club that has only recently established itself among the elite.

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Here meet the giants.