Overview
- Germany defeated North Macedonia 34:18 in Gummersbach, leading 14:8 at halftime and converting 14 of 18 fast breaks while capably defending seven-on-six, according to coach Markus Gaugisch.
- The victory starts the path toward Euro 2026 and is being used by the staff as a practical testing ground ahead of the World Championship hosted by Germany and the Netherlands.
- Defensive leader Xenia Smits, a 143-cap veteran and last year's Handballer of the Year, will meet Belgium for the first time with the national team in Sunday's qualifier in Hasselt.
- Playmaker Alina Grijseels took a blow to the nose during the match and was treated with ice on the bench, with her fitness to be monitored.
- Following Belgium, Germany has additional tune-ups planned, including two tests against Switzerland, before a final November camp for the World Championship from November 27 to December 14.