France and Norway will meet in the gold-medal match of the IHF World Women's Handball Championship in Brazil.
The French defeated Denmark 28-23 to reach the final for the second-straight time. Alexandra Lacrabère topscored for the winning team with 10 goals. She scored France's last four goals before the break to give them a 14-12 lead. The French then extended their lead in the second half and held on to it until the final whistle.
It was a painful defeat for Denmark, which built an early 7-4 lead behind goals from Line Jörgensen and Trine Troelsen.
France's win, however, did not come without a price. Former World Handball Player Alison Pineau sustained a knee injury in the first half and could be out for several months.
"Like in every match the defence was the key to win," France coach Oliver Krumbholz told the IHF official web site.
"But we are happy and sad at the same time, as our key player Alison Pineau is out for the final and is maybe even out of the Olympics. Her injury will make it really difficult for us in the final, in which we are no favourite, no matter what the opponent will be."
Standing between France and the world crown is Norway, which defeated Spain 30-22 in the second semifinal. The Norwegians waxed hot early on and cruised the rest of the way. Heidi Löke led the winning team with seven goals while goalkeeper Katrine Lunde Haraldsen was impressive in stopping the Spaniards' attack.
Norway coach Thorir Hergeirsson is now looking forward to their championship duel against France on Sunday. "They still have many top players. As both teams focus on defence, maybe the match will end 0:0 – and then the extra time has to decide."
France is seeking its second world title after last winning this tournament in 2003. Norway is also aiming for another crown since bagging its one and only back in 1999, incidentally, at the expense of the French.
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Denmark and Spain will fight for the bronze medal.
IHF World Women's Handball Championship Final Fixtures
18.12.2011
Denmark V Spain (Battle for 3rd)
France v Norway
