Croatia (CRO)

Croatia is returning to the EHF EURO after a surprising bronze medal two years ago. The 'Queens of Shock' did almost the impossible when they ended their 11th EHF EURO participation with a historic bronze medal for women's handball in Croatia.

Head coach Nenad Sostaric now has a somewhat changed team due to injuries. Sostaric has realistic goals for the EHF EURO 2022, though he dreams of repeating the success. One thing is certain: even if the bronze medal was a one-off, Croatia is rising again in women's handball.

The main concern is injuries that have put a few important players in doubt. The most significant absent player is Camila Micijevic, one of the team's top scorers from the EHF EURO 2020. After her third ACL injury, she will miss the competition. Her absence will definitely be visible in their style of play, as the sharpshooter has often been unstoppable in crucial moments.

However, Sostaric will use his expertise to help Croatia adjust. Larissa Kalaus is already well known and has been playing at a high level. Dejana Milosavljevic is an important part of Croatia's attack, but her participation is still doubtful due to a hand injury. Sostaric's biggest problem might be Croatia’s attack and their easy flow of play.

Croatia had been underachievers in the past decade, but the EHF EURO 2020 changed everything as the team surpassed expectations and returned home as heroes. The 'Queens of Shock', who only lost to France and Norway, sealed the bronze medal when they defeated Denmark 25:19. The result boosted their confidence as they qualified for the IHF Women's World Championship for the first time in 10 years.

The team will play in Ljubljana against Norway, Hungary and Switzerland. Apart from Norway, the clear favourites in group A, Croatia can hope for wins against the two other opponents. Progressing to the main round would already be a great success for Croatia.