Oradea, a Romanian water polo team, coached by Petar Kovačević and featuring player Filip Gardašević, is just one step away from securing a spot in the top eight of the Champions League.

To advance in the competition, Oradea needs to secure at least one point in their upcoming match against Steaua from Bucharest, set to take place tomorrow.

The team, under the leadership of the Montenegrin duo, has recorded two wins against Hanover and faced two losses against Novi Beograd.

They also triumphed over Steaua in a match that was decided by a successful penalty shootout.

The standout performer in that crucial match was the Montenegrin water polo player who scored a total of eight goals, six during regular play and two in the penalty shootout.

Gardašević expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming Steaua match, noting that they will determine their fate for a top-eight finish in this direct encounter.

“I am eagerly anticipating the match against Steaua, and I am hopeful we can secure the point needed to progress. It’s going to be an important and challenging match, but both teams have their chances. We are prepared and motivated to fight fiercely and earn our spot among the top eight,” Gardašević told the MINA agency.

He also expressed satisfaction with his team’s development and current performance level.

“We’ve improved our gameplay with each match and achieved several victories against teams that were deemed favorites on paper. We have trained rigorously, and I am confident that our hard work will pay off with a place in the top eight,” said Gardašević.

He recalled that Oradea began their European campaign this season in the Champions League qualifiers, where they surprised everyone by defeating the favorites Brescia and Spandau, ultimately reaching the elite competition after an 11-year absence.

Gardašević was a key player in the Romanian team’s success during the qualifying tournament, finishing with 18 goals and being the standout player in all four matches.

He made a significant impact in the crucial match for advancement to the group stage against Brescia, netting seven goals, including five during regulation time and two in the penalty shootout.

Oradea has continued its victorious streak in group A, competing against Novi Beograd, Steaua, and Hanover, with Gardašević contributing an impressive 19 goals across five Champions League games.

The pivotal match between Oradea and Steaua, which will determine a top-eight placement, is scheduled for tomorrow at 21:00.

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