The stage is set for the absolute top match of the DAIKIN HBL. The only two unbeaten teams will meet in the GP JOULE Arena: SG Flensburg-Handewitt and SC Magdeburg. Kick-off is at 8 p.m. on Saturday.
Last season was a week longer for four European first division teams than for all other clubs. The extra shift was particularly worthwhile for SC Magdeburg, as the Bördeländer won the EHF Champions League for the third time after 2002 and 2023 following a commanding final against Füchse Berlin. The "best team in Europe" was therefore able to enjoy a lucrative lap of honor in September and traveled to the Club World Championship in Egypt. There, however, Veszprém spoiled the gold triumph in the semi-finals. SCM only finished third, but after a stressful few days and a last-minute return, they were lucky to avoid losing a point at HSV Hamburg. The Magdeburg team also moved through the DAIKIN HBL almost unscathed. The "almost" refers to the away game at HC Erlangen, which ended in a draw.
The title hunters of recent years
The Füchse Berlin may be German champions, but SC Magdeburg is considered the biggest title contender. The squad is very strong and well-rehearsed. The great consistency is personified by Bennet Wiegert. The SCM veteran has been head coach since December 2015 and is therefore about to celebrate his tenth anniversary. A few months after taking over, he celebrated winning the DHB Cup. The 43-year-old can now look back on a lavish collection of titles. In addition to the two premier class triumphs, the championship trophy went to the Elbe in 2022 and 2024. Before the summer, the squad was strengthened once again when the Icelander Elvar Örn Jónsson joined SCM from MT Melsungen. For many experts, this was the top transfer that brought even more variability to an already strong back line. Names such as Omar Ingi Magnusson, Gisli Thorgeir Kristjansson, Felix Claar, Albin Lagergren and Philipp Weber stand for international quality. SCM responded to the long-term absence of Matthias Musche at left wing by signing Norwegian Sebastian Barthold to partner Lukas Mertens. Croatian goalkeeper Matej Mandic was brought in early from Zagreb, as Nikola Portner is suspended. Regular keeper Sergey Hernández will move to FC Barcelona next season. Right winger Tim Hornke will end his career.
