Spain Wins against France and Claims the Tournament Title

Spain secures the Airport Trophy 2024 in Kloten with a 29:23 victory against France.

On the final day of the Airport Trophy 2024 in Kloten, the U21 national teams of Spain and France faced off. Spain led the standings after two wins against Germany and Switzerland. France, on the other hand, still had a chance to win the tournament after a narrow defeat to Germany and a last-minute victory against Switzerland, but needed a win against Spain to do so.

While goalkeepers had not played a major role in the tournament so far, this game was different. Both sides saw numerous saves, with Pau Panitti Martinez standing out with a total of 15 saves (42%). His counterpart, Stanis Soulier, also performed well with a 37% save rate.

After the first ten minutes, Spain managed to pull ahead with a score of 6:3. The Spanish defense was solid, making it difficult for the French to create clear chances. Spain's defensive stability and transition play, often involving seven field players, were particularly notable. At halftime, Spain deservedly led 14:9.

At the start of the second half, Spain's number 6, Djordje Cikusa Jelicic from FC Barcelona, stepped up his game and played a key role in extending Spain's lead to seven goals. However, France, led by their tenacious right winger Rémi Peyre, did not give up and closed the gap to three goals. Peyre, who was his team's top scorer with six goals, continuously made an impact.

Spain continued to play a very aggressive defense, disrupting France's offensive rhythm. This maintained the lead at about six goals. Despite all of France's efforts to narrow the deficit, Spain remained in control. Whenever France applied pressure, Spain found a way to respond and rebuild their lead.

In the 50th minute, the score was 24:20 for Spain, and although France tried everything, Spain did not relinquish their lead. In the end, Spain won decisively with a 29:23 victory, earning the deserved title of Airport Trophy 2024 champions.

Throughout the tournament, Spain displayed a strong team performance, particularly relying on their solid defense and the impressive play of their goalkeeper, Panitti Martinez. They will enter the upcoming European Championship with boosted confidence.