Denmark players celebrate after defeating Serbia in their Men's European Handball Championship gold medal match in Belgrade, Jan. 29, 2012. Denmark won 21-19 to claim the title. (Xinhua/Vladimir Markovic)

Denmark won the gold medal in the European Handball Championships on Sunday, defeating the hosts Serbian team 21-19 in front of 20,000 boisterous fans in the sold out Belgrade Arena.

Throughout most of this seesaw battle between the Danish 'Vikings' and Serbian 'Eagles' rarely were the teams more than two points apart.

The Danes, noted for their disciplined, relentless style, maintained the upper hand, while a tired but emotionally charged Serbian team appeared before their expectant supporters, still celebrating their earlier victory over bronze medal winners Croatia.

Denmark were favored coming into the match, while the Serbian team had exceeded expectations in reaching the finals, relying on their defensive prowess and home turf advantage throughout the championship tournament.

Mikkel Hansen was the leading Danish point-keeper with nine goals, while Rajko Prodanovic and Nenad Vuckovic scored four and three goals, respectively, for the Serbian side.