Spain Educates the “Sharks,” Leaving Greece as Their Final Opponent in the Tournament
Montenegro faced a formidable challenge against Spain in the semifinals of the World Cup qualifying tournament, witnessing firsthand the high level of water polo within just 32 minutes regardless of the rules.
The “Sharks” struggled to keep pace with the reigning European champions, ultimately losing 15:8. They are scheduled to compete for third place on Sunday from 16:30 to 18:00 in Otopeni, Romania, facing Greece for the second time within five days, following a convincing defeat to them earlier (10:4).
In the other semifinal, Greece experienced a significant loss to Hungary, finishing 20:10.
The “Red Fury” effectively shut down all paths to their goal with a robust defense, demonstrating from the outset why they were favorites to make it to the final. Montenegro managed to score only two goals in the first 16 minutes, trailing 6:2. Both goals came from Aljoša Mačić and Jovan Vujović, who wasted five opportunities with an extra player.
Being four goals down at halftime was actually a favorable outcome, considering Vasilije Radović received a penalty early in the second period. Spain had a one-player advantage for four minutes while leading 4:2.
However, they failed to capitalize effectively. Petar Tešanović blocked a shot from Alvaro Granados from five meters, and the Spanish side only managed to score once during those four minutes before settling into their attacking rhythm in subsequent plays, firmly establishing their lead.
Quick goals in the third period extending the score to 8:2 eliminated any lingering doubts, while Montenegro’s lackluster attack was matched by a similarly poor defense, allowing Spain’s lead to expand even further.
By the end of the third quarter, Miroslav Perković finally broke the Montenegrin drought and scored, reducing the deficit to 11:3 after 15 minutes without a goal. This highlights Spain’s dominance in the match and how much Montenegro struggled…
Perković and Savo Ćetković were the dual scorers, with Đuro Radović, Vujović, Mačić, and Balša Vučković also finding the net against the Spaniards.
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