Greece Triumphs Over Croatia in European Water Polo Championship
Greece has secured a historic victory over Croatia in the European Men’s Water Polo Championships, winning 11-10 in a thrilling match held on January 15, 2026, in Belgrade, Serbia. This landmark triumph marks the first defeat of Croatia by Greece in the history of the European Championships, propelling the team forward into the semifinals.
Match Overview
From the outset, Greece demonstrated dominance, driven by strong performances from key players. Their early lead was characterized by Konstantinos Gkiouvetsis, who netted three of the team’s first four goals.
Key Performers
- Stylianos Argyropoulos: Scored four vital goals, including the game-winner.
- Konstantinos Genidounias: Despite receiving a red card late in the match, he played a crucial role in guiding the team.
- Papanastasiou: Made a significant block, preventing Croatia’s last-minute effort.
Tactical Insights
Greece maintained control for most of the match, even extending their lead to three goals at one point. Croatia’s defense, led by goalkeeper Marko Bijac, worked hard to stay competitive. Players Zvonimir Butic and Loren Fatovic frequently responded to Greek advances, keeping the game intense.
In the final moments, Greece showed remarkable composure. Even with the disadvantage of playing one man down due to Genidounias’s exclusion, they held firm, ultimately preventing Croatia from equalizing.
Tournament Implications
This victory positioned Greece at the top of Group B, earning them six points moving forward into the tournament’s next phase. Their main competition will be Italy, who is coming off a decisive 20-6 victory over Romania in Group D. Georgia also advanced from Group B, further intensifying the competition.
Looking Forward
With their significant win against a powerful rival, Greece is bolstered with confidence. The team’s performance in Belgrade showcases their ability to compete at the highest levels of water polo. Fans are optimistic as Greece strives for a historic semifinal appearance in the European Championships.
