Erika Vladu shines at U18 World Handball Championship with 14 goals

Seventeen-year-old Erika Vladu is making waves in the world of handball as she plays for Spain in the U18 World Championship. With a remarkable performance, she has scored 14 goals in just three matches, including an impressive eight goals against Uzbekistan, earning her the title of player of the match.

Born in Onda, near Valencia, to Romanian parents from Târgoviște and Buzău, Erika has been instilled with a love for her heritage. Her parents taught her the Romanian language, enriching her connection to her roots. This connection is evident as she expresses her dream of participating in the World Championship held in Romania, and her desire to play there in the future.

Erika began her handball journey at the young age of five and has honed her skills through her junior career at Handbol Mislata. Currently, she plays for CB Elche and is set to compete in Spain's top division during the 2026-2027 season.

Spain's national team has had a strong showing in the tournament, securing three victories: 27-12 against Guinea, 46-22 against Uzbekistan, and 27-24 against Germany. As reigning world champions in the U18 category, they are gearing up to face Montenegro and the Netherlands in the main phase of the championship.

Erika's admiration for clubs like CSM București and Gloria Bistrița showcases her aspirations within the sport, and her performance in this tournament is certainly one to watch as she continues to rise in the handball world.