Croatia’s senior women’s handball team defeated Paraguay 30:17 in President’s Cup Group 1 matchday 3 at the 2025 World Championship, clinching the top spot and a final berth for 25th place.

Croatia jumped to a 4:1 lead early but tied at 7:7 after Paraguay’s surge; Lucija Bešen’s saves and Katarina Pavlović’s attack fueled a 12:7 edge, holding a 14:11 halftime lead despite Paraguay’s rally. A dominant second half featured an 11:1 run from the 34th to 51st minute, shattering Paraguay’s resistance after their key players collided.​

Pavlović topped with 6 goals (match MVP), Tina Barišić added 5, Bešen made 12 saves; 10 Croats scored total. Paraguay’s María Fernandez Estigarribia netted 6 amid 12 team saves. Croatia shot 58% to Paraguay’s 46%, with minimal turnovers.​

Croatia awaits China or Cuba (China needs a draw) in the December 10 final at 18:30.