A phenomenal feeling! We have earned our spot at the World Championship, as we fought and died for every ball, playing incredibly from start to finish. Let Serbia rejoice!" said Vana Ilić, who scored nine goals and was the most efficient player in the playoff rematch, as reported by the Serbian Handball Federation (SHF).

The Serbian handball team secured a place at the World Championship, which will be held in Germany next year, despite a 30-31 loss in the playoff rematch against Hungary in Veszprem (17-17).

In the first match, Serbia celebrated a 31-29 victory in Niš, resulting in a total score of 61-60 and securing their spot at the sixth world tournament.

Serbian pivot Dragan Pešmalbek emphasized the incredible feeling. "This is incredible, surreal, and unparalleled. We endured everything, succeeded, and qualified for the World Championship. We played excellently, fought hard, and were better than everyone and everything," he stated.

Handball player Stefan Dodić believed that such achievements make life worth living and that the players have justified all expectations. "We surpassed ourselves and the full arena, successfully eliminating one of the strongest teams in the world. Proud to be here," concluded Dodić.

The World Championship will take place from January 13 to January 31, 2027, in Germany. The draw is scheduled for June 10 in Munich.