Overview

• MT Melsungen secured a 28:27 aggregate lead in the European League quarterfinals after a dramatic first-leg victory in Kassel.
• Carsten Lichtlein, a 44-year-old goalkeeper coach and former German international, was reactivated to play following a pre-match injury to starting goalkeeper Nebojsa Simic.
• Coach Roberto Garcia Parrondo substituted Lichtlein into the match in the 42nd minute with Melsungen trailing 17:21, a move that proved decisive.
• Lichtlein's key saves and 40% save rate helped turn the game around, while Ian Barrufet led the team offensively with six goals.
• The return leg will take place in Irun next week, where Melsungen will aim to defend their one-goal advantage to secure a spot in the semifinals.