Australia secured a 2–1 series victory over the United States in a spirited three-game men’s water polo exhibition series held across Southern California, serving as vital preparation for both sides ahead of the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
The three matches—held in Walnut, San Juan Capistrano, and Orange—offered fans a glimpse of two evolving national squads. Both teams featured several new faces, but it was the U.S. that saw the most significant roster overhaul compared to the squad that competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With a number of veterans taking time away from international duties, the series gave opportunities for emerging talent to stake a claim on the world stage.
Game 1: USA 13 – Australia 12
(June 8, Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA)
Team USA opened the series with a thrilling 13-12 win, clinched by Ryder Dodd’s buzzer-beating goal. Dodd scored five in total, leading an inspired comeback after a 7-5 halftime deficit. Goalkeeper Bernardo Herzer made 12 saves in a match that showcased the U.S. team’s attacking spark and resilience.
Game 2: Australia 13 – USA 12
(June 11, JSerra Catholic High School, San Juan Capistrano, CA)
Australia responded in Game 2 with a narrow 13-12 victory, levelling the series. In a tightly contested battle, both teams traded the lead throughout. The Aussies’ composure in the closing stages, anchored by disciplined defense and sharp execution, allowed them to hold off another potential U.S. comeback.
Game 3: Australia 14 – USA 11
(June 13, Chapman University, Orange, CA)
The decisive third game saw Australia deliver their most complete performance of the series. Despite four goals apiece from Hannes Daube and Nicolas Saveljic, Team USA fell short, as Australia outscored the hosts 5-2 in the final period. Marcus Berehulak, Milos Maksimovic, and Luke Pavillard each scored hat tricks for the visitors, while Australian goalkeepers Nick Porter and Laurence Baker combined for 12 saves. The U.S. struggled with efficiency on man-up opportunities, converting just one of seven power plays.
A Look Ahead to Singapore
With the exhibition series wrapped up, both teams now shift focus to the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore (July 13–29). The tournament will be a critical milestone for programs in transition.
- Australia, under the guidance of head coach Tim Hamill, appear to be building solid momentum. Their defensive structure and scoring balance suggest they could challenge the world’s best in Singapore.
- Team USA, led by a refreshed group of young talent, will use these matches as a learning platform. While the absence of several Paris Olympians was noticeable, the series offered valuable game time for players like Chase Dodd, Nicolas Saveljic, and Adrian Weinberg.
Expect both nations to bring revamped squads to Southeast Asia as they aim to test themselves against the world’s elite. For the USA, especially, the challenge lies not just in competing—but in accelerating the development of their next generation.
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Great article BUT Australia’s second Goalie is LAURENCE BARKER NOT LACHLAN BAKER!! Any chance you can edit your article to reflect his correct name?