Spain completed a clean sweep at the first edition of the Christmas Cup, defeating the United States 18–14 on Sunday at the Olympic Area of CN Terrassa. The result followed Friday’s 16–9 win in Barceloneta and confirmed Spain as tournament winners.
Backed by a full house in Terrassa, Spain made a strong start, opening a 2–0 lead and ending the first quarter 4–1 ahead. The United States responded in the second period with a strong run, overturning the momentum and reaching halftime level at 7–7.
The third quarter remained finely balanced, with neither side able to establish a decisive advantage and the score tied at 12–12 heading into the final eight minutes. Spain found separation late in the fourth quarter, scoring key goals to move clear, while a pair of important saves helped secure the outcome.
Spain closed out the match strongly to secure an 18–14 victory and lift the trophy, with the Challenge Christmas Cup serving as an early reference point in their build-up to the European Water Polo Championships 2026. For the United States, the two matches formed part of their preparation phase ahead of the upcoming World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup, offering valuable minutes and competitive testing against top-level opposition.
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