The ThSV Eisenach Bundesliga handball team has clearly failed to advance to the round of 16 in the DHB Cup. Coach Sebastian Hinze’s team suffered a 33–36 (15–16) loss on Wednesday evening against second-division side TV Emsdetten following a disappointing performance. In front of 1,699 spectators, left wing Felix Montebovi was ThSV’s top scorer with seven goals. Although the Eisenach team quickly found their rhythm on offense, they repeatedly left large gaps in their defense. As a result, the game initially developed into a closely contested, fast-paced match with numerous lead changes. From the middle of the first half onward, the intensity of the one-on-one battles increased. Emsdetten handled this slightly better and held a narrow lead at halftime. Even after the break, the visitors couldn’t get a handle on the defense and, with minor mistakes, played right into the underdog’s hands. By the 43rd minute, Emsdetten had pulled ahead 25–20. Hinze responded with a timeout and a switch to an offensive defense, but the hosts remained undeterred and at one point extended their lead to seven goals. In the closing minutes, Eisenach managed to make the score look a bit better. Copyright 2026, dpa (www.dpa.de). All rights reserved