Veszprém Defeats Szeged 38-36 in Men’s Handball NB I Final Opener

Veszprém Defeats Szeged 38-36 in Men’s Handball NB I Final Opener

May 30, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

Defending champions One Veszprém HC have secured a narrow 38–36 victory over OTP Bank-Pick Szeged in the opening match of the men’s handball NB I final. The result gives the Bakony region side a critical advantage as they pursue their 30th championship title.

The match began with a brief lead for Szeged at 3–2, but Veszprém quickly seized control. A 3–0 run followed by a dominant 8–2 series put the home side in a commanding position by the 17th minute.

Despite a strong 6–1 rally from the visitors to close a 14–8 gap, Veszprém maintained their lead. The first half concluded with the home team ahead 19–17.

Did You Know? This encounter marked the 208th meeting between the two rivals, with Veszprém claiming their 143rd victory, compared to 57 wins for Szeged and eight draws.

Second Half Tactical Shift

Szeged managed to equalize early in the second period, but they were unable to reclaim the lead. Veszprém’s wing players proved decisive, utilizing fast breaks and quick goals to establish a three-goal lead by the 43rd minute.

Second Half Tactical Shift
Mikael Appelgren Veszprém handball

The home team further solidified their position by switching to a power-play offense. While this strategy allowed some goals against an empty net, it pushed the lead to four goals by the 48th minute, effectively deciding the outcome.

Goalkeeping played a vital role in the contest. Mikael Appelgren and Rodrigo Corrales combined for eight saves for Veszprém, while Roland Mikler and Tobias Thulin recorded ten saves for Szeged.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Veszprém’s ability to convert turnovers into immediate fast-break goals likely exhausted the Szeged defense. This tactical efficiency, combined with the calculated risk of the empty-net power play, created a gap that Szeged’s defense could not overcome in the closing stages.

Awards and Farewells

Prior to the match, the club recognised standout performers from the season. Mikael Appelgren received the Marian Cozma award as the players’ choice for best player, while Patrik Ligetvári earned the Carlos Pérez award based on fan votes.

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The event also served as an emotional farewell to several departing players. Club leaders and supporters bid goodbye to Gasper Marguc, Rodrigo Corrales, Bjarki Már Elísson, and Robin Molnár, who are leaving during the summer break.

The Path to the Title

The series continues with the second match scheduled for Tuesday at 19:00 in Szeged. Because the series lasts until one team achieves two victories, Szeged must win to keep their hopes for a sixth title alive.

The Path to the Title
One Veszprém HC vs OTP Bank-Pick Szeged

If the series remains undecided after Tuesday, a third and final match could take place next week at 17:00 in Veszprém.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the first match of the NB I final?
One Veszprém HC won the match 38–36.

Which players are leaving Veszprém this summer?
Gasper Marguc, Rodrigo Corrales, Bjarki Már Elísson, and Robin Molnár are departing the club.

When and where is the next match?
The second match will be held on Tuesday at 19:00 in Szeged.

Do you think Szeged can overcome the deficit in the second leg to force a third match?