Denmark beat Croatia 24-20 in the final of the European Championship to become the fifth country to qualify for the men's handball competition at the Beijing Olympics.

The Danes had ousted world champions Germany 26-25 in the semi-finals in Lillehammer, Norway, while Croatia had also defeated France by one point, 24-23.

It is the first European title for Denmark who join China, Germany, Egypt and Brazil in the 12-team tournament at the Beijing Olympics, which take place from Aug 8th 24th.

Six more teams will qualify from three pre-Olympic tournaments at the end of May.

The Asian qualifying process is in disarray after allegations of match-rigging.

Reuters