Bettors are certainly not kind to the Macedonian national handball team, placing the odds for winning the championship at 501:1, the lowest from the 16 teams competing for Europe's top prize.

European sports journalists share the same sentiment. They believe the 12th position is the best spot Macedonia can achieve.

Mak fans and Lazarov may be keys for recording any success. Journalist give no chances to Macedonia against Sweden, and especially no chances against Germany, not because the Germans are spectacular, rather the referees will be under intense pressure to favor Germany due to their EHF connections.

The only chance Macedonia has is against the Czech Republic, also considered a strong team with goals of at least reaching the second round.

Meanwhile Macedonian fans expect only wins from their team and wouldn't be offbase to say they have placed huge pressure on our players to do well.

France, Croatia, Sweden... are considered top candidates for winning the European crown.