The Thüringer HC women's handball team advanced to the quarterfinals of the DHB Cup after an impressive second half. Coach Herbert Müller’s team defeated the German champions, HSG Blomberg-Lippe, 34–31 (13–14) in the round of 16 in front of a home crowd. Luca Csikos led the THC in scoring with seven goals. The two top Bundesliga teams gave each other no quarter from the start and engaged in a fast-paced and intense duel. Because goalkeeper Laura Kuske quickly became a key factor, the THC pulled slightly ahead for the first time at 8–5 (14th minute). In the closing minutes of the first half, however, the hosts lost their rhythm, which Blomberg capitalized on with a 6–2 run before halftime. After the break, the Thuringian team came out strong and pulled ahead 20–16 (39th minute). Blomberg’s coach, Steffen Birkner, called a timeout, but the hosts remained unfazed and continued to extend their lead. In the closing minutes, Blomberg mounted one last push, but the THC didn’t let the game get close again. Copyright 2026, dpa (www.dpa.de). All rights reserved
