The men's national handball team of Romania defeated the Turkish national team 37-32, in the away leg of the qualifying play-off for the 2027 World Championship.

The men's national handball team of Romania achieved an important away victory, defeating the Turkish team 37-32, in the first leg of the playoff qualifiers for the 2027 World Championship. The match took place in Bolu, and the team coached by George Buricea and Ionuț Georgescu controlled the game, going into halftime with a 19-15 lead.

In the second half, the tricolors pulled away decisively, having a lead of up to nine goals. Andrei Buzle was the most effective player, scoring 7 goals, followed by Ionuț Nistor with 5 goals. Dan Vasile had a solid performance in goal, with 8 saves.

On the other side, Doruk Pehlivan was the top scorer for Turkey, with 8 goals. The victory gives the Romanians their first chance to qualify for the next stage, with the return leg scheduled in Buzău on Sunday at 19:00. If Romania passes Turkey, they will face Norway in the decisive match for qualification to the 2027 World Championship.