Per Johansson win back-to-back title with Gyor: Great players, humble people!
Gyori Audi ETO KC are at the TOP of European handball for the seventh time in the history!
The Hungarian side beat Odense for the back-to-back title in Budapest.
Per Johansson, head coach of Győri Audi ETO KC:
“I don’t know if it’s a secret, but this is already my fourth time here. Many of my players have been here multiple times, so they were able to explain to those experiencing their first FINAL4 what to expect. I feel like we’re becoming more relaxed—or at least I certainly am. It’s been a tough season with many injuries, but now we have a full squad and managed to get back to the top. We are surrounded by a healthy and supportive environment; everyone is trying to back our efforts. I feel privileged to work with a team full of such fantastic people—not just great players, but humble ones too. Maybe that’s the secret.”
Hatadou Sako, goalkeeper of Győri Audi ETO KC:
“I always try to bring a lot of energy to the court. I know how important that is to my teammates. The girls work so hard in defense, and of course, it’s even better when the goalkeeper contributes as well. Today, all I wanted was to play with joy, bring energy, and feel good—and I think I succeeded. I’m very happy and proud.”
Ole Gustav Gjekstad, head coach of Odense Handbold:
“It’s never a good idea to fall behind by seven goals—let’s start with that. The Hungarians turned up the intensity and earned a great victory. They were better than us, no question. We only started defending in the second half, but by then it was a bit too late, and it’s hard to come back from that. Overall, my team and the girls fought hard throughout. We’re disappointed because we wanted to win, but tomorrow we’ll be very proud of the silver medal. The girls have fought with this kind of determination all season.”
Katrine Lunde, goalkeeper of Odense Handbold:
“I love being here, and of course, I love playing handball. The best thing you can achieve is reaching the FINAL4 and enjoying every moment of it. As Hatadou said, when you enter the game, you want to give everything you’ve got and try to turn it around. I’m proud of the team and the result, but also a bit disappointed because I think we made too many mistakes and could have had more saves. I feel we had a chance to beat them, but you can’t play seven-against-six and make those kinds of errors.”
