The Road to Cologne: A Handball Pilgrimage

The anticipation is palpable as MT Melsungen prepares to compete in the Lidl Final4 this weekend in Cologne. The Lanxess Arena, a veritable handball mecca, awaits. Erik Balenciaga, MT Melsungen’s playmaker, expressed his excitement, stating, I’m totally looking forward to the hall. On the atmosphere. just on everything. The team is focused on securing the coveted DHB Cup.

semi-final Clash: MT Melsungen vs. HBW Balingen-Weilstetten

MT Melsungen will face off against second-division side HBW Balingen-weilstetten in the semi-finals on Saturday at 7 p.m. The other semi-final match features THW Kiel against Rhein-Neckar Löwen earlier in the afternoon. The winners will then compete in the final on Sunday at 3:35 p.m.

From Underdog to Favourite: Shifting Expectations

unlike last year, where they entered the competition as underdogs against Flensburg, MT Melsungen now carries the mantle of favorite against HBW Balingen-Weilstetten. Balenciaga acknowledges the added pressure but remains unfazed. It makes no difference for me. We go into play against Balingen with the same attitude and concentration as in the previous year against Flensburg.

Respecting the Opponent: A tough Game Ahead

Despite their favorite status, MT Melsungen is not underestimating HBW Balingen-Weilstetten. Balenciaga anticipates a challenging match, emphasizing that Balingen has nothing to lose and will give it their all. Never shoudl we take the semi -finals lightly, he warned. The key, according to Balenciaga, is a strong start, stifling Balingen’s offense with a solid defense and minimizing errors on their own offensive end.

Experience Matters: Lessons from Last Year’s Final4

Many MT Melsungen players have experienced the electric atmosphere of the Lanxess Arena, playing before a crowd of approximately 20,000 spectators. Balenciaga recalls being quite impressed by the huge backdrop last year. The team also gained valuable experience in managing the demands of playing two high-stakes games within a short period. This experience, Balenciaga believes, will be beneficial this year.

The Power of the Fans: The Eighth Man

MT Melsungen is counting on the support of their dedicated fans, who will be traveling to Cologne in force. last year, the energy from the MT block provided a important boost to the team. Balenciaga recognizes the fans as their eighth man at home games and expects them to play a crucial role in Cologne, with at least 1,200 fans expected to cheer them on.

Focus on the Present: One Game at a Time

Balenciaga remains laser-focused on the immediate challenge. First of all, Balingen counts. Nothing else. The team is determined to overcome this hurdle before considering a potential final appearance.

Ancient Context: MT Melsungen vs. HBW Balingen-Weilstetten

MT Melsungen holds a favorable record against HBW Balingen-Weilstetten:

• 30 HBL games: 22 victories for MT, 7 victories for HBW, 1 draw
• 1 DHB Cup game: 1 victory for MT
• Last comparison: 08.03.24,HBW – MT 22:25

Match Officials

The referees for Saturday’s game are Fabian Baumgart and Philipp Dinges. Jutta Ehrmann will serve as the game supervisor.

Lidl Final4 2025 Schedule

Here’s the complete schedule for the Lidl Final4 2025:

• Saturday,april 12th,4:10 p.m.: THW Kiel vs. Rhein-Neckar Löwen (dyn and ARD)
• Saturday, April 12th, 7:00 p.m.: MT Melsungen vs. HBW Balingen-Weilstetten (Dyn)
• Sunday, April 13th, 12:45 p.m.: Play-off for 3rd place (Dyn)
• Sunday,April 13th,3:35 p.m.: Final for the DHB Cup (Dyn and ARD)