The road to the Women’s Water Polo World Cup finals is heating up as reigning champions, the United States of America, narrowly defeated Israel 10-9 in Group 2 action to keep their hopes alive. However, a daunting challenge against Hungary awaits on Sunday, where a win is essential for the USA to qualify for the finals in April.
Meanwhile, Hungary secured their place in the finals with a thrilling 13-12 victory over Italy, showcasing their offensive strength and composure under pressure. In Group 1, Olympic champions Spain delivered a commanding 16-8 win over the Netherlands, while Greece continued their strong form, defeating Australia 12-8.
USA Edges Israel in a Thriller
The USA survived a fierce challenge from Israel in a match that went down to the wire. Trailing 4-3 at halftime and 6-4 early in the third quarter, the Americans mounted a spirited comeback, scoring four unanswered goals to lead 8-6 by the final break.
The fourth quarter saw Israel rally to level the score at 8-8, but USA captain Chrissy Flynn converted a crucial penalty, and the Americans held on to secure the win. Goalkeeper Amanda Longan delivered a standout performance with 16 saves, providing the backbone for the USA’s victory.
Maria Bogachenko was the star for Israel, scoring five goals, but her efforts fell short as Israel failed to capitalize on their superior statistics, including a perfect 3-for-3 on penalties and a 4-0 advantage in steals.
The victory keeps the USA’s finals hopes alive, but they face an uphill battle against a formidable Hungary team that defeated them 12-7 earlier in the tournament.
Hungary Prevails Over Italy
Hungary clinched a dramatic 13-12 win against Italy, led by captain Rita Keszthelyi, who scored six goals. Hungary’s decisive third-quarter surge, where they outscored Italy 6-3, proved to be the turning point.
Italy started strong, leading 6-5 at halftime, but Hungary’s offensive firepower and tactical adjustments turned the tide. Kamilla Farago’s late goal on an extra-man play sealed the win for Hungary, who are now guaranteed a spot in the finals.
Italy, now relying on a victory against Israel, needs other results to fall in their favor to advance. Dafne Bettini’s five goals were not enough to overcome Hungary’s clinical execution, particularly during their extra-player opportunities, where they converted five of 11 chances.
Greece Outclasses Australia
Greece secured an impressive 12-8 victory over Olympic silver medalists Australia, buoyed by a home crowd that spurred them to a dominant performance. The Plevritou sisters, Vasiliki and Eleftheria, combined for five goals, while Maria Myriokefalitaki added three.
Trailing 4-3 in the second quarter, Greece unleashed a four-goal surge to take a commanding 7-4 lead. Australia trimmed the deficit to two goals in the final quarter, but Greece’s defensive discipline and penalty conversions ensured their win.
Despite Abby Andrews’ efforts for Australia, including two goals, the Stingers struggled to break down Greece’s cohesive defense. Greece now sits in a strong position in Group 1, with their final match against Spain set to determine the group standings.
Spain Dominates the Netherlands
Spain reinforced their status as tournament favorites with a resounding 16-8 victory over the Netherlands. After a tightly contested first half, Spain unleashed a seven-goal run in the third and fourth quarters, effectively ending the game as a contest.
Paula Leiton led the scoring with three goals, while Spain’s defense suffocated the Dutch attack, shutting them out for a 10-minute stretch. The Netherlands, despite valiant efforts from Lieke Rogge and Tess van der Meer, struggled to capitalize on their extra-player opportunities.
Spain’s flawless execution in extra-man situations (6-for-6) and their relentless pressure on defense solidified their top spot in Group 1. The Olympic champions are now poised to face Greece in a highly anticipated clash on the final day.
Group Standings
Group 1 (Classification 1-4):
- Spain – 6 points
- Netherlands – 3 points
- Greece – 3 points
- Australia – 0 points
Group 2 (Classification 5-8):
- Hungary – 6 points
- Italy – 3 points
- USA – 3 points
- Israel – 0 points
Final Day Schedule
Group 2 Matches (Classification 5-8):
- Italy vs. Israel
- Hungary vs. USA
Group 1 Matches (Classification 1-4):
- Netherlands vs. Australia
- Spain vs. Greece