Vardar returns home for Champions League clash with Nantes

RK Vardar returns to the EHF Champions League and will play its first home game of the season against Nantes on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 18:45 local time in Jane Sandanski Hall in Skopje. The Macedonian champions rejoined the continental competition after a five-year absence, and their opening-round defeat to Melsungen has only increased determination ahead of the Nantes match.

Home court and fans seen as decisive

Team captain Jaka Malus stressed the importance of the home crowd for Vardar’s chances in the tournament. "We expect a tough match, because all teams in the CL are strong. We expect great support from our fans because we know what that means for us and for our opponents. We haven't lost at home for more than a year and we want that to remain this season as well. I think we are ready and we enter fully focused for the first points," Malus said.

The Jane Sandanski fixture is Vardar’s first Champions League game in Skopje since the club qualified again as national champions. After the setback against Melsungen in the opening round, the squad and staff are eager to pick up their first points in front of their supporters.

Officials expect a strong atmosphere as supporters return to back the team, a factor Vardar have often cited as influential in past home victories. The club will look to convert that energy into a result that sets a positive tone for the rest of the group stage.

Earlier coverage noted that player Chupić said a win over Nantes would be important for Vardar’s campaign in the Champions League.

The match between Vardar and Nantes kicks off on September 16, 2026, at 18:45 in Jane Sandanski Hall.

Photo: press material from the event