Croatian handball star Ivan Martinović raised the jersey of his teammate Josip Šarac before their friendly match against Sweden, showing support for the ailing Croatian player. Croatia won the match 35-31 (18-16). Three days prior, Croatia faced Sweden in Kristianstad, losing 31-34 (17-17).

While most European teams are competing in additional qualifiers for the 2027 World Championship, Croatia and Sweden have already secured their spots. This victory marks Croatia's first win over Sweden in eight years.

Šarac is currently battling a serious illness, as previously reported by Index.hr. His former club, Frisch Auf Göppingen, shared concerning news, emphasizing that sports have become secondary in his current situation.

Silver Glory: A Lifelong Memory for Šarac

In 2020, Josip Šarac won a silver medal with the Croatian national team at the European Championship, his first significant tournament with the team.

"I will remember the start of this year for the rest of my life. The European Championship with Croatia was an unforgettable experience. This was my first competition with the A team, and we immediately won a medal, a silver one with the shine of gold. Everything was truly like a dream, from our game and the atmosphere within the team and on the stands to all the welcome home celebrations, first in Zagreb, then in Mostar, and finally in my beloved Ljubuški. I will surely remember this for the rest of my life," Šarac had said at the time.