Denmark (DEN)

In global competitions, Denmark have been the team to beat lately, with three straight world titles and two consecutive appearances in the Olympic final — but the EHF EURO trophy has eluded the Scandinavian nation during what has been arguably the decorated side’s most notable period of success.

Denmark came close to the top of Europe in 2022, returning to the EHF EURO semi-finals after a shock 2020 campaign that saw their lowest ranking ever. In 2022, Denmark lost to then reigning champions Spain in the semi-final before defeating France in extra time to clinch third — the national team’s seventh EHF EURO medal and 16th across all competitions.

Denmark have taken the EHF EURO title twice, in 2008 and 2012. The bronze in 2022 was their first medal in the competition since silver in 2014. Prior to their first EHF EURO trophy in 2008, Denmark placed third three straight times.

On an individual level, Denmark are in the strong position of having big quality players competing for positions in the squad and almost unrivalled depth on the bench. Led by stalwart stars Mikkel Hansen and Niklas Landin, Denmark also keep unveiling newcomers with immediate impact.

At the World Championship held in January 2023, one year prior to the EHF EURO 2024, Simon Pytlick had his breakout national team tournament, ranking fourth on the top scorer list and earning a place in the All-star Team. Prior to Pytlick, it was one of the biggest stars in the game: Mathias Gidsel. Since his debut at the 2021 World Championship, Gidsel has not missed one All-star Team at a national team competition and was named MVP of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Pytlick was sidelined with an ankle injury through the end of 2023 but is expected back for the EHF EURO 2024.