IHF | Hungary ease past Mexico to secure main round berth

Valeria Virgen netted for Mexico in the third minute, tying the score against Hungary, 1:1, but then Mexico had to wait too much for their second goal, as Hungary enjoyed runs of 10:0 and 15:0 in the first half, creating a 23-goal lead at the break, 26:3, the largest so far at North Macedonia 2024.

Mexico's main issue was their attack, with a meagre 16% shooting efficiency, as the Hungarian defence stopped their attacks with ease, with the reigning European champions then easily converting fast breaks. Left back Lea Farago was her team's top scorer, with five goals from as many attempts. 

Mexico improved their attacking performance in the second half, yet it was Hungary who continued to entirely dominate on the court. In the end, all their 13 outfield players found the net at least once, with right wing Lena Gem becoming the top scorer with eight goals. 

Earlier on Thursday, Switzerland had recorded the largest win so far at the 2024 IHF Women’s Junior World Championship, 47:11. But Hungary won by even a bigger margin, 44 goals, as they became the first team in the competition to hit the 50-goal mark.

On Saturday, Hungary will play against the Republic of Korea in their last group match, while Mexico, which will go to the President’s Cup, are scheduled to face Argentina.