When is there overtime in handball?

In handball, as in most team sports, the duration of a match is established by strict rules that define the playing time. Once the final whistle has blown, the score may still be tied between the two teams, but in certain circumstances, such as in a championship, it may be necessary to determine a winner. In such cases, extra time may be allowed.

Playing time in handball

In handball, the established playing time corresponds to a match lasting one hour in total. This time is divided into two 30-minute periods, between which the players have a rest period.
But if, at the end of normal time, the score does not allow a winner to be decided, extra time may be played.

The duration of extra time

In this case, once the first hour has elapsed, the players can catch their breath for a short period, before moving on to the first session of extra time, during which the teams play for two 5-minute periods, with a one-minute break in between.

If the score is still tied, a further period of extra time is played under the same conditions. Finally, if after these two periods of extra time the score is still tied, a penalty shoot-out is organised.

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