Ikast Håndbold achieved a dramatic 28-27 victory over CSM Bucuresti in their opening match of the Champions League season, thanks to a last-second goal. The thrilling encounter saw Ikast initially dominate, establishing a significant lead, but Bucuresti fought back to equalize in the closing minutes.

The match began with Ikast taking an early 5-1 lead, setting the stage for what seemed like a comfortable home victory. However, CSM Bucuresti, aided by goals from former Ikast player Emma Friis and Danish player Anne Mette Hansen, managed to stay within striking distance. Ikast maintained their advantage, heading into halftime with a 17-12 lead.

Following the break, Ikast continued their strong performance, extending their lead to seven goals. Their solid defense made it difficult for the Romanian team to create scoring opportunities. Despite Ikast’s dominance, their lead began to diminish in the latter stages of the game, with missed chances and fewer saves from Ikast’s goalkeeper, Amalie Milling.

With two minutes remaining, Bucuresti leveled the score, setting up a tense finale. In the dying seconds, Ikast executed a successful counterattack, and Emilie Hegh Arntzen scored into an empty net, securing a hard-fought victory for the home side.

Ikast and Bucuresti are both in Champions League Group B, which also includes Odense Håndbold. Odense Håndbold also secured a victory in their first match, defeating Ferencvaros, marking a strong start for the Danish teams in the group.