Irudek Bidasoa Irun enters its debut match in the EHF European League against FH Hafnarfjordur at Artaleku leading the Liga Asobal standings, balancing domestic success with upcoming continental fixtures.
Bidasoa Irun Claims Top Spot Heading Into European Competition
Irudek Bidasoa Irun arrives at the opening fixture of the EHF European League against FH Hafnarfjordur sitting atop the Liga Asobal standings. The match at Artaleku presents a critical test for a squad that has played the opening stretch of the domestic season with a flawless record.
While Barça has played one match fewer due to participation in the Club World Cup, Bidasoa’s technical staff and players have capitalized on a demanding early schedule. Álex Mozas oversees a squad sharing the league summit alongside Granollers and Atlético Valladolid, holding a narrow +1 goal differential at the top of the table.
That unblemished run includes two consecutive, highly demanding away fixtures and a dominant 35-25 opening victory against Nava, showcasing a +10 goal margin right out of the gate.
Offensive Depth Propels Irun Through Domestic Stretch
Recent matches have highlighted the tactical versatility and scoring depth at Mozas’s disposal. In the victory against Cangas, left back Mario Nevado led the charge with an impressive 13-goal performance. Nevado followed up that outing with another strong showing against Tubos de Aranda Villa de Aranda, netting 7 goals.
The scoring burden has been shared effectively across the roster. Miguel Ángel Martín made an immediate impact just three matches into his tenure, scoring 8 goals against Aranda. Additional scoring contributions came from Esteban Salinas with 5 goals, alongside Xavier González and Gorka Nieto, who added 4 goals apiece. Jon Ander Iribar also chipped in two goals, demonstrating the expanding utility of the bench during heavy rotation.
Mozas praised the squad’s composure following the 39-goal offensive display against Aranda. «With the rotations we were able to give Mario some rest, Miguel has been impressive, and Niko and Gorka give you a lot in the center,» Mozas said, emphasizing that individual standouts are secondary to collective output. While acknowledging minor defensive lapses, the coach noted that correcting tactical details is significantly easier following victories.
Balancing Liga Asobal and EHF European League Commitments
The immediate challenge for Bidasoa Irun involves managing the physical demands of a dual-front schedule spanning domestic competition and the European stage. Following the European debut against FH Hafnarfjordur at Artaleku, the team returns to league play on Saturday to host Puente Genil.
With minimal time for recovery, the schedule immediately turns back to international travel. Bidasoa will travel for its first away fixture in the European campaign against Marítimo de Madeira.
Keep reading
