Team Esbjerg is on the verge of securing its third consecutive Danish championship after defeating Odense Håndbold 38-31 on the road Thursday. A draw or win at home on Sunday against Odense in Blue Water Dokken will secure the title for Esbjerg.

Henny Reistad led Esbjerg with 12 goals and four assists, despite being heavily marked by Odense players. Goalkeeper Anna Kristensen also played a key role, thwarting Odense’s offense, which included four missed penalty throws.

The match mirrored Odense’s recent Champions League final loss to Györ, where a poor start hampered their chances. Esbjerg dominated from the beginning, establishing an early lead of 5-2 within four minutes and 10-4 after ten minutes.

While Yara ten Holte’s introduction in goal and tighter marking on Reistad improved Odense’s performance, their offense struggled against Esbjerg’s aggressive defense. Despite conceding six penalty throws in the first half, Odense only converted half of them, resulting in a 19-14 halftime lead for Esbjerg.

The second half was more balanced, with Esbjerg maintaining control and exchanging goals with Odense. Odense failed to overcome their initial deficit and appeared discouraged towards the end. This defeat marks their potential third final loss this season, including the cup final.

In the bronze medal match, Ikast dominated Copenhagen with a 38-21 victory. Ikast can secure the bronze medal with a draw in the return match in Copenhagen.