The first of the three significant competitions for Montenegrin water polo players kicks off today. The inaugural match at the European Championship in Croatia could greatly influence the path of the “Sharks,” paving the way to the World Championship in Doha and subsequently the Olympic Games in Paris.

As the year begins, with Doha still a while away and the City of Light even further, the focus is on Gruž, Dubrovnik. The selected team under Vladimir Gojković will compete from today until January 8, aiming to secure a spot in the quarterfinals by finishing among the top two in their group, which would also guarantee them a ticket to the World Championship in February.

The opening match is against France at 5 p.m., with Spain and Croatia also in the group. In such a competitive environment, avoiding last place is paramount, as that would likely set them up against Serbia in the round of 16.

Securing a win against the French is vital, especially since they haven’t been a team against which major teams can easily improve their goal difference. Likewise, Montenegro hasn’t been at the top of its game for several years.

“We have executed our plans during three weeks of preparation. We’ve selected 15 players who we believe are best suited at the moment, and I am confident we will represent Montenegro to the best of our ability,” Gojković stated.

This past summer in Fukuoka, Montenegro improved upon their performance from the major competitions in 2022. Although they finished eighth at the World Championship, they achieved quite a few positive outcomes, eliminating Croatia in the round of 16 and losing narrowly to Greece in the quarterfinals—a team that later competed in the final against Hungary, losing on penalties.

Now, six months later, it is time for a new leap, particularly in terms of results, as the essential goal remains—qualifying for the Olympic Games.

Additionally, a significant boost comes from the return of Drasko Brguljan, marking his first appearance since the Tokyo Olympics. His presence should enhance the capabilities and confidence of the younger “sharks.”

Drasko’s role could be pivotal at the European Championship’s start, given that major competitions can often yield surprising outcomes.

“The tournament’s opening is unique, but I believe we have a strong chance to win, which will help us position ourselves well,” Gojković added.

The legendary water polo player also reflected on their recent match against France, where they triumphed 17:11 in Cagliari.

“In that match, the French were without five key players, as they rested them on purpose. We anticipate a completely different game today, and we know what to expect,” commented Gojković.

THE FRENCH WITHOUT PRESSURE

France arrives in Dubrovnik without any pressure, having already qualified for the World Championship and being a guaranteed participant in the Olympics as the host nation.

All their key players are present, including former Montenegrin national team member and left-handed player Hugo Crusius, as well as centers Tom Verne, Mikel Bogedas, and Mehdi Marzuki.

Conversely, the pressure on Montenegro is substantial.

“Every major competition brings its own stress. We need that tension to perform correctly, and I believe we can channel it positively. The boys trained hard, and now they need to show that in the pool,” Gojković explained.

SPAIĆ: WE EXPECT A STEP FORWARD FROM 2023

Vladan Spaić is among those in the Montenegrin squad who knows the French very well, having played for Marseille for several years.

“An unpredictable match awaits us. France has made tremendous progress in recent years, entering the top eight, but I believe we hold the advantage, and it’s up to us how things unfold in the pool,” stated the “Shark” center.

It’s time for Montenegro to deliver a standout performance, according to the former “anchor” of the Adriatic.

“The most crucial aspect is that we are all healthy, arriving at the European Championship with a full squad, ready to give our all. We expect to make progress from last summer—there were positive elements then, and I believe it’s time for more, as this selection certainly has the quality,” Spaić concluded.

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