Just over a month after their heartbreaking loss in the European Championship final, highlighted by Alvaro Granados’ stunning goal in Zagreb, Croatian water polo players responded brilliantly by winning the world title.

The “Barracudas” secured their third title in history with a thrilling victory over Italy in Doha, finishing 15:13 after a tied score of 11:11 in regulation time.

The standout performers included reserve goalkeeper Mate Anić, who made a crucial save against Franćek di Fulvi, and Marko Žuvela, who scored the decisive goal for the 15:13 win against Djanmark Nicosia, leading to a jubilant celebration for the team coached by Ivica Tucak.

Earlier, Loren Fatović had a shot saved by Stefano del Lungo, and Gonzalo Ecenike struck the crossbar.

Croatia secured their victory in the top five with a goal from Rino Burić just five seconds before the match ended, following a closely contested game with several lead changes, posing significant challenges for the “setebel” in their attack, particularly when they had a manpower advantage.

Prior to their gold medal in Doha, the Croatian team had previously won titles in 2007 in Melbourne and in 2017 in Budapest. Italy, on the other hand, stands at four championships, with their last win being in 2019 in Gwangju.

“I’m overjoyed—this national team has always exhibited resilience in morale, passion, and determination. Sometimes you win five titles, sometimes you don’t. This time, they succeeded,” Tucak expressed.

“I long for Olympic gold. Until I achieve it, I won’t rest. I hope it comes with Croatia. Recently, I had a stent implanted, and I told them not to throw me in the pool, but Fatović did it anyway. Maybe they want to get rid of me,” Tucak joked.

Spain captured the bronze medal, defeating France with a score of 14:10.

Greece finished in fifth place after overcoming Serbia 15:11, while the Montenegrin water polo team concluded the tournament in eighth place after a close loss to Hungary 18:16 this morning.

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