A THRILLING finish to the men’s handball final saw France beat Sweden by a single point to retain their Olympic title. France were a point ahead going into the last minute when the enterprising Luc Abalo scored to make it 22-20. That seemed to be that, but a swift reply from Kim Ekdahl du Rietz left the French clinging on for victory in the closing seconds.
France won 29-26 when the teams met in Group A earlier in the competition and there was little to choose between them in today’s match at a feverish Basketball Arena. Niclas Ekberg scored six goals for the Swedes, who were 5-3 ahead after 11 minutes. France went 10-7 ahead thanks to a goal by Xavier Barachet on 24 minutes