Salvador, Brazil – The United States made a statement on the opening day of the World Aquatics Women’s U20 Championships, overturning a three-goal halftime deficit to stun defending champions Hungary 11–10 in a thrilling Group B clash.
Hungary, winners in 2023, looked in control after a strong start, building a 7–4 lead at the break. The Americans, however, clawed their way back into contention in the third quarter, with Rosalie Hassett’s outside shooting and Kamryn Barone’s sharp finishing cutting the deficit. In the final period, USA’s persistence paid off as they outscored Hungary 5–2, with captain Emily Ausmus firing home the winner on an extra-player opportunity just 18 seconds from the end. Hungary had one final possession but failed to convert, handing the Americans a memorable opening victory.
In the other Group B match, Greece also had to fight from behind to edge Italy 13–11. The Greeks opened well but found themselves trailing midway through the match after four unanswered goals from the Italians. Nefeli Krassa was the difference-maker, scoring five times, including the clincher in the dying seconds, to seal an important win.
Group A saw two comeback victories. Spain recovered from a 3–1 deficit against the Netherlands to win 13–7, powered by Olympic gold medallist Isabel Piralkova and Ariadna Temprano. After a slow start, the Spaniards took control with a 12–4 run over the final three quarters. New Zealand edged Israel 12–11 in a tense encounter, overturning a three-goal deficit in the fourth quarter. Riaan Bryant’s penalty and Katie Marshall’s counter-attack finish proved decisive despite a late response from Israel’s Miya Tirosh, who scored five goals.
In Group C, Croatia’s senior internationals dominated Brazil 18–9, with Neli Jankovic leading the charge with six goals. Brazil, led by Leticia Lorieto’s four, showed fight early but could not match Croatia’s depth and experience. Argentina also enjoyed a comfortable start, beating Mexico 16–7 after taking a commanding 9–3 lead into halftime. Bianca Perasso and Anahi Bacigalupo both scored four for the South Americans.
Group D brought convincing wins for the favourites. China overcame Canada 12–8, converting six of their eight extra-player chances and controlling the match through Zhang Yumian’s four goals. Australia powered past South Africa 17–4, setting the tone with a 5–0 opening quarter and spreading the goals among Taafili Taoso, Anneliese Pamp, and Bless Daly, who all finished with hat-tricks.
After the first day, Spain and New Zealand lead Group A, Greece and the USA top Group B, Croatia and Argentina share the lead in Group C, and Australia and China sit first in Group D.
Day two will see some intriguing clashes, including Italy’s bid to bounce back against Hungary and the highly anticipated showdown between the USA and Greece, both unbeaten in Group B.
Standings after Day 1
Group A: Spain 3pts, New Zealand 3, Israel 0, Netherlands 0
Group B: Greece 3, USA 3, Hungary 0, Italy 0
Group C: Croatia 3, Argentina 3, Brazil 0, Mexico 0
Group D: Australia 3, China 3, Canada 0, South Africa 0
Day 2 Key Fixtures
- 10:30 – Australia v Canada (Group D)
- 12:00 – Croatia v Mexico (Group C)
- 13:30 – Italy v Hungary (Group B)
- 19:00 – USA v Greece (Group B)