Reigning European champions France are defending their continental title one year after finishing third in the World Cup. In their opening match against the Czech Republic, Guillaume Gille's men made no mistake, securing a comfortable victory (42-28) at the Unity Arena in Bærum, Norway. All three Parisian players in the France squad took part in the match.
While Karl Konan shone in defence, Elohim Prandi put on a show at the other end of the court, finishing as his team's joint top scorer with six goals. Wallem Peleka scored his first goal in a major international competition for France. Les Bleus could already secure their place in the Euro main round by beating Ukraine on Saturday 17 January (18:00).
With new Parisian recruit Simen Lyse in there ranks, Norway were determined to win their first home match, against Ukraine. Mission accomplished for Jonas Wille's men, who delivered a solid performance and secured a comfortable victory (39-22). Before facing France in what promises to be a high-octane encounter, the Norwegians will have the opportunity to continue their winning streak against the Czech Republic on Saturday (20:30).