Overview
- Germany booked the last-four spot by defeating France 38:34, led by 10 goals from Juri Knorr and a strong finish.
- Defensive anchor Tom Kiesler missed that game with a gastrointestinal infection; staff say he feels better, but his availability for Friday remains uncertain.
- Croatia arrived from Malmö after a lengthy bus trip, is staying in Silkeborg, and coach Dagur Sigurdsson skipped the official media call in protest over travel and lodging conditions, with players describing sleeping on the bus floor.
- Sigurdsson, who coached Germany to the 2016 European title, now leads a seasoned Croatian side with many Champions League regulars and recent big-game pedigree.
- The tie follows two German warm-up wins over Croatia earlier this month, and the winner advances to Sunday’s final in Herning, where Denmark faces Iceland in the other semifinal.