The 18th round of the Spanish League was packed with drama, featuring thrilling finishes, unexpected upsets, and a dominant display from the reigning champions.
Barcelona Survives Sant Andreu Scare in a Shootout Thriller
Despite being heavy favorites, Barcelona had to battle hard against 9th-placed Sant Andreu, eventually edging out a 17:14 victory after a tense penalty shootout. Barcelona led 9:6 in the second quarter and seemed to be in control, but Sant Andreu fought back to level the game at 11:11 entering the final period. The visitors pulled ahead 13:11 with two minutes left, only for Sant Andreu to equalize once more at 13:13, forcing penalties. Barcelona kept their nerve from the spot, securing the extra point. Pol Goma Esforzado led the charge with five goals, while Pau Campos netted six for the hosts.
Sabadell Overcomes Slow Start Against Mediterrani
Second-placed Sabadell had a shaky start against Mediterrani, trailing 1:4 after the first quarter. However, a strong response saw them turn the game around by halftime (7:5) before extending their lead in the second half to claim a 17:12 win. Francesco Valera shone with four goals in Sabadell’s comeback performance.
Tenerife Stuns Terrassa in the Round’s Biggest Upset
The biggest shock of the weekend came as Tenerife Echeyde toppled fourth-placed Terrassa 13:11. The Canarians started strong with a 4:1 lead, but Terrassa clawed back to level the game multiple times. With the score tied at 11:11 late in the match, Tenerife delivered the final blow, scoring twice in the last three minutes to seal a statement victory. Luis Araya was instrumental, netting six goals to lead his team to an unexpected triumph.
Barceloneta in a League of Their Own
Defending champions Barceloneta continued their relentless form with a crushing 23:6 victory over Real Canoe, further improving their staggering goal difference to +202 (336:134). Every field player got on the scoresheet, with Vince Vigvari netting four times.
2024/25 Spanish League, Round 18 Results
Sant Andreu – Barcelona 14:17 (3:3, 4:6, 4:2, 2:2, PSO 1:4)
Mediterrani – Sabadell 12:17 (4:1, 1:6, 3:5, 4:5)
Real Canoe – Barceloneta 6:23 (0:6, 3:6, 2:6, 1:6)
Tenerife Echeyde – Terrassa 13:11 (4:2, 3:4, 3:2, 3:3)
Mataro – Catalunya 11:8 (3:4, 4:0, 3:3, 1:1)
Rubi – Caballa 11:12 (2:4, 2:2, 3:3, 4:3)
Standings After Round 18
- Barcelona – 51 pts (17 games)
- Sabadell – 50 pts (18 games)
- Barcelona – 42 pts (18 games)
- Terrassa – 39 pts (18 games)
- Mataro – 28 pts (18 games)
- Mediterrani – 22 pts (18 games)
- Tenerife – 20 pts (18 games)
- Sant Andreu – 19 pts (17 games)
- Catalunya – 17 pts (18 games)
- Caballa – 14 pts (18 games)
- Real Canoe – 10 pts (18 games)
- Rubi – 9 pts (18 games)