France beat Russia 27-24 in the first quarterfinal of the Men's Handball competition at the Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium on Wednesday, August 20.

The French took charge of the game from the first minute although neither team over-exerted themselves and there were few steals or fast breaks.

Center back Daniel Narcisse orchestrated the French attacks and scored nine goals, his last one an impressive flying jump shot.

Right wing Luc Abalo also performed well, netting three goals from his position and another three from fast breaks. Key player Nikola Karabatic only scored on two of his seven shots.

Russia encountered difficulties penetrating a well-organized French defense and soon changed tactics to jump shooting from nine meters. But only five out of 20 of their shots from that distance reached the goal.

Pivot Alexander Chernoivanov built some success from six meters out, netting four goals from his favorite position.

With 12 minutes remaining Russia closed the gap to 22-21 before Narcisse extended the margin with two quick goals.

(Beijing2008.cn August 20, 2008)