Metz players secured victory this Saturday in the return quarter-final of the Champions League. The Dragonnes defeated Ferencvaros (31-28) and will advance to the Final Four. This marks their third consecutive win! Metz will travel to Budapest, Hungary, on June 6 and 7 for the women’s Champions League Final Four. After a tie in the first leg against Ferencvaros (31-31), Metz faced some challenges this Saturday but ultimately earned a deserved qualification with their strong performance. Leading 18-12 thanks to Tyra Axner (8 goals) and Valentine Granier, Metz faced a tough second half as the opposing goalkeeper shone while Metz struggled to score. However, the Swedish duo of the team made the difference in the end.
Axner-Bundsen were instrumental in Metz’s victory. “I am so relieved. We fought throughout the match, never doubting or giving up. I am incredibly proud of our team. I am so happy with this squad,” said Axner after the game. Although she will leave Metz at the end of the season, Swedish left back Johanna Bundsen was pivotal, making 15 crucial saves. Despite Ferencvaros having opportunities to close the gap, Bundsen’s decisive saves, including a late penalty stop, thwarted their attempts. On the opposing side, Petra Anna Simon’s 11 goals tried to rally FTC, but missed chances, like Emily Vogel’s shot on an open goal (28-26), reduced the visitor club’s chances of qualification.
“It was a tough match. We started poorly, but the end of the first half allowed us to extend our lead. The start of the second half was not ideal either, but we managed to pull through and secure victory. It’s time to celebrate! As for the EHF FINAL4 tournament, the goal is to go as far as possible,” commented Bundsen at the end of the game. Metz may be joined by Brest if the Breton team secures their spot on Sunday.
