Team Esbjerg’s handball women are set to compete for a Danish Championship (DM) hat-trick after securing a spot in the final with a dramatic semi-final victory against Copenhagen Handball. The defending champions clinched a 37-36 win in the capital, following their victory in the first semi-final.
The team’s success is largely attributed to star player Henny Reistad.
Esbjerg will face either Ikast or Odense in the final.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that Esbjerg has reached the DM final.
They have won gold in each of the previous three years.
During the first half, Esbjerg struggled defensively, and their goalkeepers had difficulty making saves.
Ditte Bach and Stine Jørgensen performed well for Copenhagen, helping the home team take a 20-18 lead into halftime.
Despite Copenhagen’s efforts to contain Henny Reistad, she consistently found ways to contribute, keeping her team in the game.
Four quick goals from Esbjerg at the start of the second half, combined with Copenhagen’s struggles on offense, quickly shifted the momentum.
Esbjerg’s goalkeeper, Anna Kristensen, returned to form, and the team’s attack gained speed and creativity, with Reistad continuing her strong performance.
Reistad’s scoring and assists prevented Esbjerg from pulling away on the scoreboard.
Late suspensions for Esbjerg allowed Copenhagen to close the gap, but Reistad continued to score, assist, and draw penalties.
Ultimately, Esbjerg secured the win in a close finish.
Reistad finished the game with nine goals and nine assists.
The team will now prepare for the Final 4 in the Champions League next weekend, followed by the DM finals.