SC Magdeburg Crowned European Champions for Fifth Time in Club History
For the second time in three years and fifth time in club history, SC Magdeburg are champions of Europe. In an all-German EHF FINAL4 showdown, Bennet Wiegert’s side outclassed Füchse Berlin 32:26 (16:12).
Claar, Kristjansson, and company seized control midway through the first half, established a four-goal lead, and—uncharacteristically for matches at the Lanxess Arena—never looked back, maintaining their advantage without late drama.
Despite having a seemingly lighter semifinal, it was Magdeburg who appeared fresher, faster, and more dominant. They shut down Berlin’s most dangerous weapons—goalkeeper Dejan Milosavljev failed to make an impact before being substituted late in the first half, while Magdeburg’s stellar defense neutralized the most potent offense in Europe this season.
Key to their triumph was an outstanding defensive performance, notably in transition, and the brilliance of goalkeeper Sergey Hernandez, who made 18 saves. They also managed to keep star right back Mathias Gidsel largely in check—something few teams have achieved.
This was Magdeburg’s first win over Füchse Berlin in four attempts this season, but it came in the biggest match of the year. While Berlin claimed the Bundesliga title ahead of Magdeburg, and Kiel and Flensburg took the German Cup and EHF European League respectively, German clubs effectively split the season’s major trophies.
The strongest impression from the final was Wiegert’s masterful preparation, Magdeburg’s suffocating defense against the top-scoring team in Europe, and their incredible tactical discipline and unity. On the other hand, Berlin’s key players—Milosavljev and Gidsel—had a rare off day.
After demolishing Nantes in the semifinal, Berlin players confidently promised there would be no “underperformance” in the final, but that’s exactly what happened. The loss marked the end of the best season in Füchse Berlin’s history.
Magdeburg’s season, however, was close to collapse not long ago. They were far from the Bundesliga summit, their Champions League Round of 16 spot was in jeopardy, and injuries plagued the squad. It looked like a season to write off. But then came the knockout stage—a new beginning—and a spectacular surge in form led by Wiegert’s revitalized team.
After several years, the most prestigious club trophy in handball is heading back to Eastern Germany!
Final Score: Füchse Berlin – SC Magdeburg 26:32 (12:16)
Füchse Berlin: Ludwig (12 saves), Milosavljev; Wiede, Darj, Prantner, Strlek, Andersson 1, Lichtlein 3, Gidsel 7, Freihöfer 5, Langhoff 1, Beneke, Grüner, Herburger, av Teigum 7, Marsenic 2
SC Magdeburg: Hernandez (18 saves), Portner; Claar 6, Zechel, Kristjansson 8, Pettersson 3, Magnusson 6, Serradilla 1, Hornke, Weber, Lagergren 2, Mertens 2, Saugstrup 3, O’Sullivan, Damgaard, Bergendahl
