Fuchse Berlin struggle to get past Brazil’s Pinheiros

Doha: Defending champions Fuchse Berlin of Germany started their IHF Super Globe campaign with a hard-earned 33-31 win against Brazil’s Esporte Clube Pinheiros at the Duhail Handball Stadium on Friday.

Two-time winners Barcelona beat Esperance Sportive de Tunis 42-24 to qualify for the semifinal where they will meet HC Vardar, who defeated Iranian side Naft-O-Gas-Gachsaran 30-22.

The game opened evenly with vocal support for Tunis from their fans, but it did not take long before the nine-time Champions League winners took control.

Barcelona coach Xavi Pascual made it clear prior to the beginning that the competition is a crucial one as it will help his side prepare for the season. As Pascal guided his side to a decisive quarterfinal victory, he also used the chance to practice different defensive and attacking line-ups.