Starting at 20:15:5 p.m., the Montenegrin water polo team will compete against Romania in the first of two matches for placements from 8th to 10th place. This duel is crucial, as a victory would secure the “sharks” a spot in a more favorable group at the World Championship in Doha.

Should they win, Vladimir Gojković’s team will be placed in Group C alongside Serbia, Japan, and the United States at the World Cup commencing on February 5.

Conversely, if they lose, Romania would enter that group, while Montenegro would be relocated to Group D, competing with Italy, Hungary, and Kazakhstan. The outcome is significant for the Olympic Games qualification through Doha, where the final four spots are available.

The top teams from the four groups will gain direct advancement to the World Cup quarterfinals, while the second- and third-placed teams will enter playoffs to secure a position among the top eight.

“The match against Romania is very important. We must win if we want to secure an easier group at the World Cup. It’s challenging to recover after a loss to Italy, but a victory would mean a lot. We need to focus, as a setback against Romania would complicate our path to Paris. Objectively, we are a stronger team,” remarked Aleksa Ukropina.

Montenegro is favored against Romania and must deliver on that expectation.

“We are approaching the match with seriousness and will give our best effort. The tournament has been exhausting, and we are doing everything we can to recuperate effectively. We will definitely be prepared and focused; I hope that will be sufficient for victory,” emphasized Dušan Matković.

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