Americans Dipped in the Final Quarter, Knocked Out of the Running
Johnny Hooper is among the USA’s key players as Montenegro’s final opponent in the World Cup, Photo: worldaquatics
The USA water polo team held a significant 13:9 lead against France with just five minutes remaining. However, they were unable to secure the victory.
The French team made a remarkable comeback, equalizing at 13:13 and eventually winning 18:16 in a penalty shootout, which now sets Dejan Udovicic’s team up for a clash with Montenegro for 7th place at the World Championship in Fukuoka.
This result ensures that France has qualified for the next World Championship in Doha, where they will compete for 5th place against Italy, who has already qualified for Qatar.
The top scorers for the winning side were Toma Verno and former Montenegrin representative Ugo Kruzi, each netting four goals. On the USA side, Alex Bowen (six goals) and Johnny Hooper (four) led the scoring.
The Montenegro vs. USA match is set for Saturday at 4:30 AM local time.
News