Since the days of Sheffield (1993) and Rome (1994), when Italy claimed the titles of European and then World Champion, Croatia made its debut in major competitions as an independent nation, marking the beginning of a fierce water polo rivalry.

Thirty years later, the “setebelo” and “barracuda” remain strong contenders. Today at 15:30 (local time), they will clash once more in the grand final of the World Championship in Doha to determine the new world champion.

Italy seeks its fifth World Cup title following victories in 1978, 1994, 2011, and 2019, while Croatia aims to add a third star to its name, having previously won in 2007 and 2017.

This confrontation at “Aspajer dom” will also serve as a strategic face-off between two brilliant coaches – Alessandra Campanje and Edge of Tucak.

“This final holds significant meaning for me, even as many look ahead to the Olympic qualifications. The Games are in July, but today is February – let us relish this final before contemplating Paris,” the esteemed Italian coach shared on the association’s website.

For Tucak, the former coach of Jadran from Herceg Novi, this marks his third World Cup final. In Kazan 2015, his Croatian team fell short against Serbia, but two years later in the semifinals, they avenged that loss. In front of a packed Margitsiget, they overcame Hungary and emerged as World Champions.

“I’ve told the players there won’t be any more training sessions or video reviews – all that’s left is to rely on our hearts and minds for the final,” Tucak was quoted as saying by “Večernji list”.

“This is Croatia’s fourth final, whereas it’s my third. We’re pleased with our progress thus far, but that final step remains. We must achieve it.”

Since their initial meetings in Sheffield and Rome, the encounters between Croatia and Italy have given rise to countless memorable matches that ultimately crowned new champions.

The Barracudas made history by winning their first European title in 2010, defeating Italy in the final. Two years later, they again triumphed over Italy in the Olympic gold medal match in London. Croatia also celebrates significant victories on their path to titles in 2017 (World Cup quarterfinals) and 2022 (European Championship semifinals).

Conversely, Italy clinched World Championships in 1994 and 2011, both times defeating Croatia in the semifinals.

Everything is set for yet another classic showdown – the world eagerly awaits to discover the new champion.

The final day of the championship also features other important matches – the day kicked off early this morning with Montenegro facing Hungary for seventh place (our match started at eight), followed by Spain and France competing for third place, and Greece facing Serbia for fifth.

WC Doha 2024

Final

Italy – Croatia (15:30)

For 3rd place

Spain – France (9:30 AM)

For 5th place

Greece – Serbia (14:00)

For 7th place

Montenegro – Hungary (8:00 AM)

News