“Crimson Conquest: Claiming the First European Championship Title”
A heated contest was anticipated in the Sava pool, but the first semi-final match of the European Water Polo Championship turned into a showcase of Spain’s power.
The 2022 world champions have secured a spot in the EP final following an impressive victory over Italy, winning 7:4. They now have the opportunity to claim their first European gold in history on Tuesday.
From the outset, the “Red Fury” effectively denied any advances towards Unai Aguirre’s goal (who made 14 saves), while Felipe Perone, Alberto Munaris, and Alvaro Granados found the net in the attack. By the middle of the second period, it was clear who would be heading to the final in Zagreb.
Spain led 5:1 after three quarters, and although Italy managed to narrow the gap to 5:2 early in the final quarter through Francesco Condemi after almost 20 minutes of play, it was too late for them to mount a comeback.
Securing a place in the final could also earn Spain a spot in the Olympic Games, assuming Hungary triumphs over Croatia in the second semi-final starting at 18:30.
If the “barracudas” reach the finals, the winner will automatically earn a ticket to Paris.
Montenegro will face Romania at 20:15, and a victory would see them compete against Greece for fifth place, as the Hellenes defeated Serbia earlier today 10:7.
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