As the year comes to a close, Montenegro witnesses fierce competitions for its premier cup, with this year’s Cup promising to be the most exciting in a decade.

Water polo will take center stage in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday, as Podgorica and the SC Morača pool host the final tournament. While Budva and Kataro may have their strategies, it’s evident that anything less than a new classic between Jadran and Primorje in the final would be a surprise.

The defending champion Jadran, a participant in the Champions League, will face Budva in the first semi-final (Wednesday, 18:00), while Primorac, aiming for the Eurocup knockout stage, will battle their city rival Qatar.

“I anticipate an engaging tournament, although this year the gap between Jadran and Primorje compared to the rest may be a bit wider,” stated Novljan coach Petar Radanović during today’s press briefing in Podgorica.

“I believe we will see a final between Jadran and Primorac, but we must remain vigilant,” commented Zoran Maslovar, head coach of Primorac.

What do the so-called underdog teams think about this…

“Our average age is around 16, so it’s unrealistic to think we pose a threat to any team, especially Jadran. We’re embarking on a new chapter with new management, a new coach, and young talents from our youth team, bolstered by emerging players from Herceg Novi and Kotor,” said Budva’s coach, Nikola Popović.

Kataro is aware of the challenging match ahead against their city rival, yet…

“This is a chance for our young players to shine against a European team. We need to approach this fight, adhere to our strategy, and try to disrupt our opponent,” remarked Qatar’s coach Ivan Bjelobrković.

The final, scheduled for Thursday at 20:00, is expected to pit our two premier clubs against each other in a fierce rivalry.

“In all honesty, the final should feature Primorac and Jadran, and anything can happen in that match; a single ball could alter the game’s fate. We will strive to retain the trophy,” Radanović affirmed.

Two years back, Primorac ended a decade of Jadran’s dominance in the Cup, and these players are dedicated to reclaiming the cup for their historic city.

“We’ve taken significant strides forward; I believe the anticipated final will be a thrilling contest, marked by uncertainty and great intensity, especially with a lively audience in attendance. We aim to win, though it’s not an absolute necessity. Should the opportunity arise, we will certainly pursue the trophy,” Maslovar concluded.

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