Rostov-Don's 2026 Home Opener: Mishkopad and Cup Final Rematch
Fans can buy plush toys at the Mishkopad charity event to be donated to children«s homes.
The women«s handball club Rostov-Don will play its first home match of 2026 on January 24. In the Russian Championship match, Irina Dibirova»s team will host Astrakhanochka at the Sports Palace.
Back from Vacation
On December 24 at the Sports Palace, Rostov-Don defeated Maykop«s AGU-Adyif with a score of 34:20. After that, the team went on New Year»s holidays.
The first match after the short break was played in Tolyatti against Lada. The Rostov women won 23:19.
Impressions from the first game of 2026 and expectations for the upcoming match with Astrakhanochka were shared with 161.RU by right wing Yekaterina Levsha.
«We paid a lot of attention to physical conditioning with our fitness coach. There was also enough handball in training to regain our previous form. In Tolyatti, we played well and worked hard on defense.
I believe that any breaks are always beneficial, primarily mentally. You rest a bit not only physically but also mentally. It«s great when you can spend time with loved ones, especially during the New Year holidays.
Ahead of us is a good game. Astrakhanochka is a tough opponent, they have proven it many times, and we are preparing seriously for them. It definitely won«t be easy, but of course, we are all looking forward to the Mishkopad charity event. It is a very kind and good action that allows us to help children.»
Mishkopad Charity Event
Rostov-Don, together with the charitable foundation Darina, has been holding the Mishkopad action for five years. Fans before the match will be able to buy plush toys, and after the final buzzer — throw them onto the court. The toys will be donated to orphanages.
The proceeds from the toy sales will go towards the treatment of 17-year-old Kirill Dergachev — he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.
Repeat of the Final
Rostov-Don and Astrakhanochka played in the final of the Russian Cup 2024/25. Then in Astrakhan, the Rostov women won with a score of 31:26.
In the first round match of this Russian Championship season, Rostov-Don away defeated Astrakhanochka with a score of 31:27.
