Croatia beats Spain to reach Olympic water polo semi-finals
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Photo credit HVS / Andrea Staccioli (DBM)
Croatia has secured a place in the semi-finals of the Olympic water polo tournament in Paris after a fantastic performance in the quarterfinals against Spain.
Croatia were impressive from start to finish on Wednesday against Spain, a team considered one of the favourites to win gold.
Croatia got off to a strong start, leading 2-0 after the first quarter.
The team’s defence was particularly impressive, with goalkeeper Marko Bijač making several crucial saves to keep Spain scoreless during this period.
By halftime, Croatia extended their lead to 6-3.
Photo credit HVS / Andrea Staccioli (DBM)
In the third quarter, Croatia maintained their momentum, increasing their lead to 8-5.
Spain fought back by scoring two unanswered goals at the start of the final quarter to trail 8-7 but Croatia would keep the pressure on when it was most needed and they would regain their two-goal cushion.
Spain had a chance to narrow the gap with just over a minute left but it was Bijač again who would deny them and Croatia would hang on for the win 10-8.
Croatia’s victory against Spain came after a challenging loss to the USA in their last group game.
In the other quarterfinal matches, Australia faces USA, Serbia and Greece meet, whilst Hungary will play Italy. Croatia will play either Italy or Hungary in the semi-finals.
Croatia reached the quarter-finals at the last Olympics in Japan in 2021 and won silver in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. Their last gold medal came in London in 2012.
