After Rapid Bucuresti's maiden win against Lokomotiva in round 1 of the EHF Champions League Women, they surprised the French champions and took a point after a thrilling finish.
Metz handball made a strong finish to the first half and led until the 40th minute when Rapid Bucuresti began their comeback and with the help of Eliza Iulia Buceschi and Diana Ciuca earned a draw.
GROUP B
CS Rapid Bucuresti (ROU) vs Metz Handball (FRA) 32:32 (16:21)
- Rapid made a good start, however, mistakes in the attack allowed Metz to go on a 5:0 run to leave the hosts without a goal for seven minutes
- Metz's Bruna de Paula, Sarah Bouktit and Kristina Jörgensen caused problems galore for Rapid's defence, scoring 15 times in the first half
- the second helped was all about Rapid's strong defense putting in the spotlight on Diana Ciuca between the posts
- Rapid Bucuresti made a comeback, with a goal by Orlane Kanor for 32:31 in the 58th minute for their first lead of the match
Never give up
Metz were strong from the first minute, opening a more than a four-goal lead for the first 40 minutes of the match.
It looked like Rapid Bucuresti's perfect start to their debut season in the top-tier competition was about to end. However, with strong confidence and loud support from the stands, Rapid turned things around in the crucial moments.
They have upset Metz who looked like they had the match under control. Even though she missed a chance to secure the win for her team, Eliza Iulia Buceschi was great at centre back and scored five times. Orlane Kanor stepped in for the last 15 minutes and added another four goals.
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