Since the magic of a talented young player called Mikkel Hansen, GOG have been waiting no less than 17 years for their second victory against mighty Barça — and after less than 30 minutes, the Danish side knew that their wait would be extended when they faced the Catalan giants on Thursday night.
Emil Nielsen was one reason for the early decision: The Danish international goalkeeper saved more than 40 per cent of the shots he faced in the first half, and allowed the home side to build up a five-goal advantage at 10-5.
GOG’s seemed to crumble at 22-12, when the gap was double-figured for the first time, and the rest was an easy-going cruise for the record EHF Champions League winners.
Barça showed a well-balanced performance, with new arrival Daniel Fernández as top scorer. After a one-year absence from the top-flight competition, GOG were taught a lesson in efficiency and also what a strong and mobile defence can do. When everything was said and done, Barça allowed GOG to polish the result, but they were never endangered.