Kosteski urges North Macedonia to show Greece who they are ahead of qualifier
Captain Nikola Kosteski demands concentration and a solid defence as North Macedonia visit Greece in a Euro 2028 qualifier on 8 November 2026.
North Macedonia's men's handball team travels to Greece on 8 November 2026 for a key Euro 2028 qualifying fixture, with kick-off scheduled at 16:00 local time. The visitors are aiming for a second consecutive victory in the group after opening with a win, while Greece seek redemption following their loss to Sweden in the first round.
Captain Kosteski sets the tone
Coach Kiril Lazarov will take a motivated squad into a packed arena, and veteran captain Nikola Kosteski warned that concentration from start to finish will be decisive. Kosteski underlined the team's preparation and respect for the opponent, but also insisted North Macedonia must assert its identity on the court.
“It is very important for us to be at the desired level in this duel with Greece. We prepared well, to see where we stand with the form. We train hard because we know that it will be tough. It is an opponent that plays better every year and will surely be motivated against us. We analysed them quite well, they have a quality back line, but we are North Macedonia, we have a mix of young and experienced players, we have been appearing at major competitions for years and want to continue doing so. We must be focused from the first to the last minute and show them who we are, as North Macedonia, as a people, and make it clear that they have nothing to look for,” says Kosteski.
Defence is expected to be the foundation of North Macedonia's approach. Kosteski emphasized that a solid defensive display would create scoring chances at the other end and simplify the team's task.
“The most important thing for us is to focus on defence. The match will not be easy at all and therefore it will be very important to be concentrated in defence from the first to the last minute. If we are at a high level in this part of the game, goals will follow on the opposite side, which would significantly ease our task,” the captain added.
The fixture between Greece and North Macedonia will be shown live on Arena MK.
Photo: RFM
