A Spain side that continues to fine-tune its game ahead of the European Championships made a strong start to 2026, defeating Australia women’s national water polo team 16–10 in the opening match of the RFEN Aquatics Women’s Water Polo Christmas Cup.
Played at the Pere Serrat pool at CN Sant Andreu and broadcast live on RTVE Play, the encounter served as a high-quality early-season test — and a rematch of the Paris 2024 Olympic final. Spain passed it with authority.
The atmosphere in the stands was lively from the opening sprint, and Spain women’s national water polo team responded immediately. Goals from Carlota Peñalver and Ari Ruiz put Jordi Valls’ side 2–0 up, setting the tone for the contest.
Australia pushed back and kept themselves in touch, but Spain edged the opening quarter 3–2, combining defensive solidity with patience in attack.
Spain’s control became more evident in the second period. Led by the youthful energy of Peñalver, Queralt Antón and Mireia Guiral, the hosts produced a devastating 4–0 run to stretch the score to 7–2. Although Sienna Hearn briefly halted the momentum, Spain went into halftime with a commanding 8–4 lead — achieved without needing to reach top gear, but built on discipline and structure.
The third quarter proved decisive. Spain emerged with clear intent, exploiting defensive disorganisation in the Australian ranks and capitalising on sharp shooting to extend the margin to 11–4. Even with a few missed penalties, the pressure was relentless, forcing Australian coach Bec Rippon to call a timeout late in the period.
Behind it all was a standout performance from goalkeeper Martina Terré, who conceded just five goals across the first three quarters. Spain won the quarter 5–1 and entered the final period firmly in control at 13–5.
With the outcome effectively decided, the tempo dropped slightly in the fourth quarter — understandable in a two-leg Christmas Cup format. Australia enjoyed more success in attack, winning the final period 5–3, but Spain never looked threatened and closed out a comfortable 16–10 victory.
Paula Camus was named MVP after a composed all-round display and three goals.
With the European Championships just over two weeks away, Spain leave the pool with more than just a win — they leave with the sense that their rhythm is steadily building.
Match report
Result: Spain 16–10 Australia
Quarter scores: 3–2, 5–2, 5–1, 3–5
Spain:
Elia Jiménez; Ari Ruiz (3), Queralt Bertrán (1), Queralt Antón (2), Nona Pérez, Paula Crespí (1), Júlia Frigola (1), Alba Muñoz (1), Carlota Peñalver (2), Paula Camus (3), Mireia Guiral (1), Paula Leitón, Martina Terré, Irene González (1).
Coach: Jordi Valls
Australia:
Claire Durston; Hayley Ballesty, Tenealle Fasala, Bronte Hallingan (1), Olivia Mitchell, Abby Andrews, Ani Pamp (2), Sienna Hearn (3), Pippa Pedley, Bless Daly (1), Tilly Kearns (1), Dani Jackovich (2), Alyssa West, Emma Putt.
Coach: Bec Rippon
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