Serbia and Austria Clash in Decisive EHF EURO 2026 Group A Finale
HERNING, 19 January 2026 – The final round of preliminary group matches at the Men’s EHF EURO 2026 reaches its climax tonight, with a high-stakes encounter in Group A. Serbia and Austria face off at the Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning (18:00 CET), with a coveted spot in the main round hanging in the balance. Following a stunning victory over Germany, Serbia are in pole position, while Austria must win to keep their tournament hopes alive.
The Stakes in Herning
After two matchdays, Group A remains finely poised. Serbia’s dramatic 30-27 victory over Germany on Saturday has thrown the group wide open. A win or a draw against Austria will secure Serbia’s progression to the main round for the first time since the 2018 championship. For Austria, who fell to a narrow defeat against Spain, only a victory will suffice to have any chance of advancing, making this a must-win knockout fixture in all but name.
Key Match Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Men’s EHF EURO 2026 – Preliminary Round (Group A) |
| Date & Time | 19 January 2026, 18:00 CET |
| Venue | Jyske Bank Boxen, Herning (Denmark) |
| Serbia’s Form | Won 30-27 vs Germany (17 Jan 2026) |
| Austria’s Form | Lost vs Spain (17 Jan 2026) |
| Serbia Coach | Raúl González |
| Key Serbian Player | Dejan Milosavljev (Goalkeeper) – 12 saves vs Germany |
Historical Context and Recent Encounters
Historically, Serbia have enjoyed greater success on the European stage, finishing as runners-up in 2012. Austria’s best result remains a quarter-final appearance. The two nations last met in a major tournament at the EHF EURO 2024, where Austria finished 11th and Serbia 19th. Serbia’s current squad, blending experience with youth like left back Miloš Kos, will draw confidence from their recent qualifying victory over Spain, a result that announced their potential as tournament dark horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Serbia need to qualify for the main round?
Serbia will secure a main round berth with a victory or a draw against Austria. A defeat would leave their fate dependent on the result of the parallel Germany vs Spain match.
What is at stake for Austria?
Austria must win to have any chance of progressing. Even with a victory, they would likely need favourable results elsewhere to finish as one of the best third-placed teams.
When did Serbia last reach the main round of the EHF EURO?
Serbia’s last appearance in the main round of the European Championship was in 2018. A victory tonight would end an eight-year wait.
Where can I watch the match?
The match will be broadcast live across Europe on the European Handball Federation’s broadcast partners. Live streaming is available worldwide via EHFTV.com.