Men’s Olympic Tournament II continues on Saturday with Spain hunting for their first victory against Iran, before hosts Sweden play Slovenia in a top-of-the-table clash. 

Saturday April 9 in Malmö Arena, Malmö

Both Spain and Iran come into their second match on the back of a loss in their opener – but the similarities between the sides all but end there. While Spain were defeated at the hands of Slovenia by three goals (21:24), Iran were steamrolled by hosts Sweden to a disheartening 19:34 loss in their first game. 

Iran’s comparative lack of experience, particularly against a Spain team rich with continuity, will work against them over the three-day tournament in Malmo. It is unlikely the Asian team will be able to really challenge the powerhouse nations they come up against, but the European team should still expect a motivated opponent on Saturday. 

Spain may be able to look forward to a more relaxed second match, but they have some serious work to do if they are to keep their Olympic dream alive as their chances at qualification now strongly depend upon the results of Slovenia-Sweden, and their game against the hosts on Sunday afternoon. 

With one win each behind them, Slovenia and Sweden take to the court on Saturday as the two tournament leaders, with the knowledge that the result of this meeting will prove crucial in determining the group’s representatives in Rio.

With both teams favouring a fast-paced game dominated by agile backs, reliable wings lethal on counter attacks and strong goalkeepers, fans in Malmo Arena can look forward to another exciting match. The edge has to go to hosts Sweden however, as they not only have the home crowd behind them, but are showing a steady increase in cohesion and depth throughout recent months that highlights coaches Staffan Olsson and Ola Lindgren’s strategy for the team to peak at the right moment.