In the opening game of this year's Airport Trophy, the Swiss local heroes met the guests from France. The symbolic kick-off of the game was allowed to carry out as a special guest A national coach Michael Suter, who then followed the entertaining game from the stands.
 

In the initial phase, the French made it clear that they would attack from behind cover. Despite the hard cover, the Swiss were able to open the score. Carried by the fantastic atmosphere in the sold-out Ruebisbachhalle in Kloten, the Swiss even managed to lead 4:1. But the French guests coped well with the lack of concentration at the start and found their way into the game better. After some changes in the French ranks, more speed and pressure came into play. Unfortunately, Switzerland acted somewhat indecisively in this phase and thus gave up the lead. Until the page change it was 12:14. 
 

The second half started evenly and the Swiss acted quickly and unerringly. But the opponent also knew how to skilfully use his speed game. The physically superior French made fewer mistakes, especially in attack, and in turn punished the Swiss' insecurities very consistently. The Swiss were less and less able to keep up with the game of the guests and fell more and more behind. After 52 minutes of play the deficit had increased to 20:27. Nevertheless, the home team did not let up and inspired the raging hall with handball, which is well worth seeing. Although the game ended with a clear 23:34 defeat for the Swiss, this did not spoil the atmosphere in the hall. Also thanks to the very large number of supporters of the French. A thoroughly successful start to this year's Airport Trophy!