The outcome is crucial at the onset of the European Championship, though the Montenegrin water polo team did not leave a strong impression against France.

In Dubrovnik’s Gruž, the “sharks” triumphed 20:19 on penalties (the regular match ended in a 10:10 tie), marking an important first step towards the quarter-finals, or at least a smoother route to securing a top-eight finish.

Head coach Vladimir Gojković expressed contentment only with the win and the team’s energy.

“France had a relatively less intense preparation phase; we anticipated they’d be stronger now, but I expected us to maintain greater control over the match,” Gojković mentioned.

Petar Tešanović made a crucial save against Igo Kruzia in the tenth penalty round, after which Aleks Ukropin sealed the victory and secured two points.

“I commend our opponents, but also my players, as this win was driven by determination and heart. They managed to claim victory under less than ideal conditions,” Gojković added.

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