Tokyo 2020 gold medallists France battled back from four goals down with 20 minutes to play to secure victory by a single point 23-22 at the Palau D’Esports De Granollers.

France turned the ball over repeatedly in the early stages allowing Denmark to take a 10-6 lead.

Denmark keeper Althea Reinhardt was proving a stubborn obstacle producing several saves but as the Danes goalscoring dried up, France found their scoring form and took the crucial lead with three minutes remaining thanks to a goal from Pauletta Foppa.

France will face Norway after the Norwegians showed their experience and quality to defeat Spain 27-21 in front of a boisterous home support of more than 5,000.

Norway’s keeper Katerina Lunde produced a superb display to repel whatever the hosts threw at her, but things were level at the break at 11-11 after a tactical switch saw Spain fightback late in the first half.

There was only one point in the contest with 22 minutes remaining, before Norway went on a scoring run of seven goals to their opponents two, opening an advantage that was never pulled back.

Lunde continued her impressive form in goal helping her side maintain their lead despite the fact they were two players down at times due to suspensions.

The victory means Norway reach their eighth final in the last 13 editions of the championship, and if they go on to defeat France they will win a record-equalling fourth gold medal in the competition.

France and Norway will face off in a repeat of the final of last year’s European Women’s Handball Championship, which Norway won 22-20, while Denmark will face Spain for the bronze medal, with both games scheduled to take place on Sunday (December 19).