Slovenia trailed the mighty Croatia by seven goals in the 44th minute to stage a magnificent come-back in the match that was all but decided.

Croatia had a five-goal lead at the half-time by virtue of strong defence and numerous counter-attack against hapless Slovenians.

It seemed that the match was decided early in the second half as Croatia increased their lead in the 39th minute to seven goals and managed to maintain a comfortable cushion halfway into the second period.

Slovenia's comeback started around the 40th minute, with the Slovenians slowly but surely eating away Croatia's advantage and actually taking their fist lead of the match in the last minute.

Croatia had a chance to even the score and force overtime in the last possession but failed to score, giving Slovenia their first medal at world handball championships.

Slovenia distributed the scoring load, with top scorers being Gašper Marguš, Darko Cingesar and Marko Bezjak with four goals each.

It was a payback win for Slovenia as the Croats defeated them four years ago in the bronze medal match at the world championships in Spain.