Pro Recco will face HAVK Mladost Zagreb on Thursday in the second round of the men’s Euro Cup.
After parting ways with head coach Damir Vincek, Mladost will be under new leadership with Igor Milanovic taking charge. Despite a penalty shootout loss to Szolnoki Dozsa in their opener, Mladost will look to use home advantage to upset the Italian giants.
Pro Recco comes off a commanding 19-8 victory over Duisburg, showing their strength as tournament favorites. However, head coach Sandro Sukno remains cautious: “It will be a very difficult game in Zagreb, but we will be ready.”
Group A
Elsewhere, Apollon Smyrnis faces another tough test against AN Brescia after a 14-10 defeat to Jug Dubrovnik last week. Brescia, packed with Champions League experience, will be a tough challenge, but Smyrnis remains hopeful. Meanwhile, Jug will aim for another win when they travel to face Strasbourg, who narrowly lost to Brescia.
Group B
In an all-Greek showdown, Vouliagmeni NC will take on Panionios GSS, with both teams searching for their first points after opening defeats. Vouliagmeni will aim to bounce back from their thrilling 16-15 loss to Ortigia. Elsewhere, BVSC Manna ABC hosts Ortigia after their impressive win over Panionios, with both teams hoping to build momentum.
Group C
ASC Duisburg, after being overpowered by Recco, faces another challenge against Szolnoki Dozsa, who edged past Mladost on penalties. Mladost will have their hands full against Recco, but with home support and a new coach, they will look to make a statement.
Group D
Honved, after a second-half collapse against VK Sabac Elixir, will face Panathinaikos, with both teams desperate for points. CN Barcelona, after returning from Greece with a win, will take on Sabac in a key match that could define the group standings.
Photo: Dejan Đorđević
Watch the Euro Cup Men Group Stage matches live on euroaquaticstv.com.