The Portuguese Under-19 Women’s National Team failed to qualify for the European Championship final, losing to Denmark in overtime in the semi-finals, 35-38, in Pitesti, Romania. They will compete for the bronze medal against either Hungary or Romania.
Portugal came close to securing qualification when they had possession and a one-goal lead in the last minute of regulation time (31-30). However, José António Silva’s players were punished for passive play and, in the final 19 seconds, conceded an equalizer to Denmark (31-31).
Three consecutive goals from Denmark in the first 10 minutes of overtime, in addition to Joana Semedo’s two-minute exclusion, made the task difficult for the National Team, which faced an almost insurmountable obstacle in goalkeeper Signe Rasmussen.
In the first half of the match, the Portuguese women led the score, reaching a five-goal advantage, 19-14, reduced to three at halftime, with a score of 19-16.
Luciana Rebelo, who scored 14 goals, was the most inspiring player for the Portuguese and the top scorer, while the most effective Danish player managed nine goals.
Portugal will now compete for the bronze medal on Sunday against the winner of the match between Hungary and Romania.
