The series of preparation games ahead of the European Championships in Belgrade has begun in Paris, where France hosted Hungary.
Each team scored 17 goals in regular time, and Hungary ultimately triumphed in a penalty shootout, 22:21 (4:3, 5:5, 4:3, 4:6, PSO 5:4).
Hungary competed with a rejuvenated roster. Absences included Krisztan Manhercz, Szilard Jansik, Daniel Angyal, Soma Vogel, etc. Meanwhile, Dome Dala, Bendeguz Ekler, and Henrik Simon made their debuts for the Hungarian team, while Adam Nagy served as captain. There were a few new names on France’s roster, too.
Vjekoslav Kobescak debuted as France’s head coach in this match.
There were a lot of turns in the first half. Hungary took control late in the third period, building a 13:11 lead. In the fourth quarter, the visitors increased the margin to three – 14:11. However, France came back and took the lead – 17:16 in the final minute. Adam Nagy leveled at 17:17 with two seconds remaining on the clock. After five rounds of penalty shots, Hungary claimed a narrow 22:21 win.
Vendel Vigvari was Hungary’s best scorer with five goals (including the shootout), Adam Nagy and Akos Nagy added four each. Alexandre Bouet led France with eight goals.
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