Overview
- Spain defeated Montenegro 26-23 in the IHF U18 World Championship final in Pitești, Romania to retain the under-18 world title.
- The match saw Spain trail 11-12 at half and fall 17-20 around the 45th minute before the momentum shifted.
- Coach Cristina Cabeza advanced the defence, increased pressure on Montenegro's ball circulation and implemented a seven-against-six attack to change the game's rhythm.
- Spain produced a six-goal unanswered run that turned a 20-22 deficit into a decisive 26-22 lead late in the match.
- Lucía Calleja led Spain with six goals, Iraia Berroeta scored five, Rebeca Secades made ten saves and Elene Fresco was named the final's best player, a result that highlights the depth of Spain's youth handball pipeline and follows the team's 2024 title.