Ikast Håndbold Clinches Dramatic Champions League Opener with Buzzer-Beater Goal
Ikast Håndbold of Denmark secured a thrilling victory in the opening match of the 2025/26 EHF Women’s Handball champions League, defeating Romania’s Kang Ho CSM BUCURESTI 28-27. The game, played on September 7th at IBF Arena in Denmark, was decided by a last-second goal from Emilie Hegh Arntzen.
Ikast,the runner-up of this season’s EHF European League,demonstrated their Champions League caliber in their debut match. The Danish team initially dominated, building a significant lead in the first half fueled by Yamina Roberts’ performance, achieving a 5-1 advantage within the first 11 minutes. Emily Hegh Arntzen also contributed key goals, helping Ikast maintain a four-to-five goal lead before finishing the first half ahead.
Despite a strong comeback effort by CSM Bucuresti in the second half, spearheaded by goalkeeper Evelina Eriksson (38% save success rate) and Elizabeth Omoregie, Ikast maintained composure. the score was tied 26-26 with under two minutes remaining.
With just two seconds left on the clock, Arntzen received a long pass from goalkeeper Amalie milling, broke through the centre, and scored the winning goal.
“I am happy to win an vital victory in the first match of the Champions League. The players have fought without losing their concentration until the end of the game,” said Ikast director Søren Hansen to the European Handball Federation.
Arntzen expressed her excitement, stating, “I’m vrey happy to win the first match of the Champions League. Besides,it’s a special experience to score the final goal against the team. We led most of the game, but CSM Bucure Sty was caught up to the end. I did not [give up].”
