Jadran m:tel, Banja Luka, Jug, Dinamo Bucharest, and Barcelona, five aspirations, and just one ticket available in the historic Gruž – the battle for elite status commences today as the water polo players from Škver kick off their Champions League qualifying journey.

The first opponent in Dubrovnik will be the Bosnian representative at 20:30, but, given the context of history and overall quality, the pivotal match for group stage placement is projected to be between Jadran and Jug.

“We are prepared, healthy, and ready for the encounter with Jug – which is the toughest and most significant. We’re determined to secure a spot in the Champions League. Although Jug is not as strong as last year, I believe they still possess quality, just like we do,” stated Jovan Vujović, the center of the team from Herceg Novi.

The victor of the Dubrovnik tournament will advance to the Champions League, joining Barceloneta, Marseille, and Vaša in the group, while the rest of the Gruž teams will continue in the Eurocup.

“I anticipate fewer challenges with other opponents than with Jug,” Vujović added, emphasizing that he believes Jadran’s strength in this tournament lies in robust defense and swift counterattacks.

Jug appears somewhat weakened compared to last season, but they still boast significant talent among their roster.

“They have several elite players who have recently medaled with the national team. Maro Jokovic is their most seasoned player, serving as a critical asset in attack. Following him are Rino Burić and Marko Žuvela,” Vujović pointed out.

In contrast to Jug, Jadran features a stronger lineup than last season, with the return of water polo star Aleksandar Ivović and national team contender Dimitrije Obradović, alongside newcomers Đorđe Lazić and Vuk Milojević. Additionally, key players like Vasilija Radović have renewed their contracts.

Furthermore, Novljani also benefit from a notable name on the bench, as Vladimir Gojkovic has returned to his Adriatic roots after parting with the Montenegrin national team.

“The addition of Ivović as a key player signifies a tremendous boost for us, along with the other new signings and the return of coach Gojković. I believe we are more equipped and much stronger this year,” Vujović expressed.

To gear up for the tournament in Dubrovnik, the club from Škver recently triumphed over the formidable team from Radnički in a friendly match.

“We had a practice match against Radnički, which was perfectly timed. It was a great opportunity to spar with them. The team regrouped 15 days ago and that match served as a perfect lead-in,” concluded the Montenegrin representative.

In the Champions League group stage, Primorac represents Montenegro as the reigning champion — the Kotorani will compete against Olympiakos, Savona, and the group winner of the qualification group featuring Sabadelj, Ortiđa, Šabac, and Pai d’Aix.

ADRIATIC MATCHES IN DUBROVNIK

Jadran m:tel – Banja Luka (tonight, 20:30)

Jadran m:tel – Jug (Saturday, 18:30)

Jadran m:tel – Dinamo B (Sunday, 12:30)

Jadran m:tel – Barcelona (Monday, 10:30)

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