Until Sunday, there were many unanswered questions about the real level of the Danish national team as they haven't really been challenged in their first five matches at the tournament.
But on Sunday, they were faced with plenty of resistance on the court and in the stands, and perhaps it came as a shock to the Danes, who, despite the win, must be left with mixed feelings.
In an arena heavily dominated by loud Hungarians, Denmark played for far too long without conviction in attack. Especially when Helena Elver was given a break, the remaining Danes looked confused with bewilderment in their eyes.
Defensively, it could have been worse, but the Hungarians just kept pumping the Danish defenders for energy. And midway through the second half, Denmark looked like a broken team as Hungary enjoyed a five-goal advantage.
But then Amalie Milling was given a chance to shine between the posts, the attacks were again neatly set up by Helena Elver, and Denmark reduced the deficit by three successive goals.
Suddenly, the Hungarians struggled to make an impact against a well-organized and stubborn Danish defense, and with 11 minutes left, Michala Moller equalized at 24-24.
Hungary briefly took the lead by two goals again, but the belief and energy had been dashed, and in the last ten minutes, Denmark suddenly played promising handball to earn a hard-fought win.
Denmark can now look forward to the World Championship quarter-final against the Netherlands or France on Wednesday.
