Denmark defeated Argentina 27-38 at the South Paris Arena 6, with Mathias Gidsel converting every shot and Emil Nielsen protecting the Danish goal. Despite the loss, the Gladiators showed grit and improved their performance. Argentina now faces two crucial matches to advance to the next phase.
Denmark started with a strong offense, gaining an early lead. Argentina had difficulties to react and adjust to the forcefulness of the European players, who led by their goalkeeper Emil Nielsen showed a solid defense and an effective counterattack.
It was not until the last seven minutes that the Gladiators experienced one of their best moments of the game, closing the gap from seven to just three goals.
The power and efficiency of the current Olympic runners-up was on display at the South Paris Arena 6. Of the 18 goals Denmark scored in the first half, 10 came from Mathias Gidsel, completing a 100% efficiency rate. Simon Pytlick’s quick goal with 2 seconds left in the first half brought the game back to a 5-goal lead for the Europeans, ending 14-19. 
A start-up on
Two consecutive steals by Pedro Martinez ignited the Gladiators’ confidence and allowed the Danes to go a few minutes without converting. Despite this, the outstanding performance of Danish goalkeeper Emil Nielsen was crucial to maintain the lead.
In the final phase of the match, Denmark reaffirmed its dominance, reaching a 10-goal lead. Mathias Gidsel was the top scorer with 13 goals, while Argentina’s top scorer was James Parker with 6 goals.
Despite the efforts of the Albiceleste squad, they were unable to match the pace imposed by the Europeans. The final score was 27-38 in favor of Denmark.
Statements:
“It hurts because of the fact that we lost by 10 or 11 goals, I think we played a great game against a great opponent. we know what Denmark is, we had friendlies in the previous tour.”
“They are champions of everything, Olympic and World Cup. Attacking whoever attacks, you have to close, they release the ball, they have a very high level”.
“Dreaming, dreamed all, we are going to put up a fight, I don’t want to say we are going to win but we are going to battle with our still gladiator.”
“It’s hard to start and go losing, we are in a moment that we have to enjoy.”
What is missing
Argentina must play two matches to qualify for the next phase. The next match will be on August 2 against the locals, France, at 6:00 (ARG) and on Sunday 4 against Egypt at 6:00 (ARG).
Photo: IHFBy Camila Miranda Torres.
