Two of Europe’s modern-day powerhouses, FTC-Telekom Waterpolo and VK Novi Beograd, collide on Sunday night in Malta in what promises to be a thrilling Champions League final. Both clubs have grown accustomed to being on the biggest stage, but this will be the first time they meet in a title match.
For Ferencváros, the mission is historic: no Hungarian club has ever retained the Champions League title. Zsolt Varga’s side have been in imperious form all season — unbeaten in regular time across 48 matches, and with only one Champions League loss (in a shootout). The reigning champions arrive in Malta with momentum, depth, and a hunger to cement their legacy.
Novi Beograd, meanwhile, will be desperate to avoid a third consecutive final defeat. Twice runners-up to Pro Recco, the Serbian giants showed grit and maturity to edge Zodiac CNAB in the semifinals via shootout. With a younger, reshaped squad under Zivko Gocic, they’ve grown throughout the season — and now have a golden chance to finally lift the sport’s most coveted club trophy.
Sunday’s final (21:30 local time) is more than just a rematch — it’s a defining moment for both teams. Will Fradi make history? Or will it be third-time lucky for NBG?
Earlier in the evening (19:30), CN Marseille and Zodiac CNAB will fight for bronze. For the French side, already making history with their first Final Four, a podium finish would be a crowning achievement. For the Spaniards, it’s familiar territory — but they’ll hope to avoid another chapter in their semi-final heartbreak saga.
Champions League Men – Finals Schedule (1 June 2025, Malta):
🟣 19:30 – Bronze Medal Match: Zodiac CNAB (ESP) vs CN Marseille (FRA)
🟢 21:30 – Gold Medal Match: VK Novi Beograd (SRB) vs FTC-Telekom Waterpolo (HUN)
Head-to-Head – Final:
🟢 FTC lead the all-time series 4–1
🔹 Most recent: 13–13 (FTC won on penalties) – 2023–24 semifinal
Head-to-Head – Bronze Match:
🟡 CNAB lead 5–1
🔹 Group Stage 2024–25: CNAB won 12–9 and 19–14
See more on Waterpolo 360’s Champions League Homepage
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