The women’s national handball team ended its main round of the 2025 World Cup with immense disappointment, losing by a single goal against Argentina (29-30). Trailing by seven lengths at half-time, the Tunisians had nevertheless managed a spectacular comeback before giving in in the final seconds. This defeat ends their journey in Group C.
A cruel scenario despite an exceptional comeback
Dominated in the first period, the Tunisians fell far behind (10-17) against a solid Argentine team who were perfectly established in the match. Unable to find offensive solutions during the first thirty minutes, they seemed to be heading towards a logical defeat.
Returning from the locker room completely changed the dynamic: more aggressive in defense, more creative in attack, the players of the selection whittled away the gap minute after minute. Their intensity and determination made the Argentine team waver, who had to draw on their resources to preserve their advantage.
A few seconds from time, Tunisia came back to within one and even briefly glimpsed the possibility of a historic draw. But a poorly negotiated final possession sealed the fate of the match, leaving a bitter taste as the collective effort was remarkable.
Frustration, regrets and determination
Within the selection, the frustration is palpable. The technical staff like the players remember above all the quality of the reaction, but regret the lack of consistency between the two halves.
The team, however, highlights the solidarity displayed in the second half, as well as the encouraging signs for the future, believing that this meeting could serve as a basis for future international events.
Last in group C, the Tunisians left the main round with only one victory but also with sometimes solid performances against better ranked opponents. The selection, which continues its reconstruction process, had already underlined the importance of this World Cup to strengthen the experience of its group.
If the results remain disappointing, the ability to react and the spectacular comeback against Argentina suggest potential to be consolidated with a view to future continental competitions and qualifications.
Results of Tunisia in 1er round
- Tunisia – France 18-43
- Tunisia – Poland 26-29
- Tunisia – China 34-28
Group F standings
- France – 6 pts
- Poland – 4 pts
- Tunisia – 2 pts
- China – 0 pt
Tunisia’s results in the Main Round
- Tunisia – Netherlands 21-39
- Tunisia – Austria 27-25
- Tunisia – Argentina 29-30
Group 3 standings
- Netherlands – 10 pts (qualified in quarter-finals)
- France – 8 pts (qualified in quarter-finals)
- Poland – 6 pts
- Argentina – 0 pts
- Austria – 2 pts
- Tunisia – 2 pts
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