Iceland register their biggest European win as Italy return

Iceland defeated Italy 39–26 in Kristianstad to record their largest European Championship victory. Italy were returning to the finals after twenty-eight years and offered a competitive opening spell before Iceland’s back court found the space to establish a commanding group F result.

Italy’s aggressive 3–3 defence kept the score level at 7–7 after fourteen minutes. Iceland then responded with a 14–5 run before half-time, reaching the interval ahead 21–12 despite Italy’s switch to a more conventional defensive formation.

Janus Daði Smárason scored eight goals and received the match award, combining with Ómar Ingi Magnússon and Gísli Kristjánsson for twenty-one. Leo Prantner led Italy with seven as Iceland collected their first two tournament points.