World Water Polo Champs: Croatia miss out on quarterfinal after late drama
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Team Croatia during the men match between team Croatia and team Montenegro at 20th World Aquatics Championships at the Marine Messe Hall B in Fukuoka (Japan), July 23rd, 2023 (Photo credit: G.Scala/DBM za HVS)
Croatia has been knocked out of the World Water Polo Championships in after late drama in their Round of 16 match against Montenegro.
The two water polo powerhouses met this morning with game going down to the last seconds. In a thrilling encounter, Montenegro edged the Croatians by just one goal to win 13-12 (4-4, 4-5, 3-0, 2-3).
Team Croatia cheers during the men match between team Croatia (white caps) and team Montenegro (blue caps) at 20th World Aquatics Championships at the Marine Messe Hall B in Fukuoka (Japan), July 23rd, 2023 (Photo credit: G.Scala/DBM za HVS)
The match was marked by numerous mistakes and fouls, as well as brilliant goalkeeping on both sides, especially Croatia’s Marko Bijač, who produced 15 magnificent saves, including one penalty shot.
Marko Bijac of Croatia during the men match between team Croatia (white caps) and team Montenegro (blue caps) at 20th World Aquatics Championships at the Marine Messe Hall B in Fukuoka (Japan), July 23rd, 2023 (Photo credit: G.Scala/DBM za HVS)
The game saw several turnarounds and mini-runs from both teams, but Montenegro ultimately proved to be the stronger side.
Rino Buric of Croatia during the men match between team Croatia (white caps) and team Montenegro (blue caps) at 20th World Aquatics Championships at the Marine Messe Hall B in Fukuoka (Japan), July 23rd, 2023 (Photo credit: G.Scala/DBM za HVS)
Croatia’s next in Fukuoka will take place on Tuesday, July 25, against Canada. It will be the first match for rankings from 9th to 12th place.
