RK Zagreb delivered one of their most encouraging European performances of the season on September 16, pushing French giants Paris Saint-Germain to the limit in the second round of the EHF Champions League group stage.
Despite trailing by six goals early in the match, Hrvoje Horvat's team fought back with determination, briefly taking the lead and keeping the result in doubt until the final minutes. However, PSG's greater experience and clinical finishing ultimately proved decisive, allowing the French side to secure a hard-fought 34–30 victory. 
PSG Dominate Early Before Zagreb Fight Back
The hosts made a powerful start, with Elohim Prandi and Omar Yahia causing serious problems for Zagreb's defence. PSG quickly established a 10–4 advantage, seemingly taking complete control of the contest. But Zagreb refused to surrender.
A significant improvement in defensive organisation, combined with patient attacking play, helped the Croatian champions gradually reduce the deficit. Diano Ćeško, Giorgi Tskhovrebadze and Ihar Bialiauski contributed important goals, while goalkeeper Sandro Meštrić made several valuable saves.
Zagreb completed a remarkable comeback to move ahead 17–16 shortly before half-time. Although PSG regained the advantage, the teams entered the break separated by just one goal, with the French champions leading 18–17.
Zagreb Come Close to a Stunning Upset
The second half developed into an intense battle, with Zagreb continuing to challenge their highly regarded opponents.
Horvat's tactical decision to use a seven-against-six attacking formation created additional problems for PSG's defence and helped Zagreb maintain pressure throughout the contest.
The Croatian side remained competitive and even moved 28–27 ahead with approximately eight minutes remaining. At that stage, a memorable European victory appeared within reach.
However, Zagreb missed opportunities to extend their advantage, while PSG responded with a decisive run of goals. The hosts' experienced players stepped up in the closing stages, securing a four-goal victory that did not fully reflect how closely the two teams had competed for much of the evening. 
Horvat Praises Zagreb's Fighting Spirit
Following the match, Zagreb head coach Hrvoje Horvat acknowledged his team's strong performance while expressing disappointment at missing the opportunity to claim at least a point.
Horvat explained that Zagreb had remained focused despite their difficult start and had successfully surprised PSG with their attacking adjustments. The coach believed his players had done enough to put the French side under serious pressure but lacked the finishing touch needed to complete the upset.
Zagreb player Zlatko Raužan shared that frustration, highlighting missed opportunities during the final ten minutes. Raužan nevertheless praised the team's resilience, tactical preparation and ability to compete against one of Europe's strongest clubs.
Yahia Leads PSG to Victory
PSG's Omar Yahia was the match's leading scorer, finishing with ten goals, while Elohim Prandi added eight. For Zagreb, Ihar Bialiauski led the scoring with six goals, followed by Zlatko Raužan with four.
Several other Zagreb players made valuable contributions, demonstrating the team's collective attacking strength. Although Zagreb left Paris without points, their performance offered several encouraging signs.
The Croatian champions demonstrated that they could compete against elite European opposition through disciplined defending, effective tactical adjustments and a determined collective effort. Recovering from a six-goal deficit and challenging PSG until the closing minutes underlined Zagreb's potential to trouble stronger opponents.
The defeat also highlighted areas requiring improvement, particularly attacking efficiency and decision-making during decisive moments.
For Zagreb, the result was disappointing, but the performance provided a clear message: the Croatian champions are capable of challenging Europe's leading handball teams when they play with confidence, discipline and intensity.
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