SYDNEY, July 25 — Greece water polo produced another strong performance to defeat Italy 10-9 in the Men’s Water Polo World Cup semi-final and advance to Sunday’s gold-medal match against Hungary.
Composed Display Secures Final Spot
Thodoris Vlachos’s side delivered a determined display. Therefore the team claimed a place in the final. The result continues their strong run at major tournaments. Goalkeeper Panagiotis Tzortzatos played a decisive role. He produced a series of outstanding saves. These stops proved especially important in the first half. As a result they kept Italy at bay and ultimately secured the victory.
Greece started slowly. The side found themselves 2-0 down early on. Italy led 2-1 at the end of the first period. However the Greeks responded strongly in the second quarter. They turned the game around. Consequently Greece took a 5-4 lead into half-time. The lead was one they never relinquished.
Italy Push Fails to Break Greek Resolve
Italy pushed hard after the break. The Italians attempted to force their way back into the contest. Meanwhile, Greece stayed composed. The national team held a 7-6 advantage after three periods. In addition, the Galanolefki managed the clock in a tense final quarter. They withstood a late Italian surge. The score finished 10-9 in favour of Greece. This result sent the national team into the World Cup final. The clear aim remains claiming the world title.
The match took place at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Greece had earlier advanced from the quarter-finals with a narrow win over Montenegro. That earlier result set up the semi-final clash with Italy. Vlachos’s squad entered the tournament with high expectations after recent strong showings at major events. The side has shown resilience throughout the competition in Sydney.
Quarter scores (Italy–Greece): 2–1, 4–5, 6–7, 9–10
Coach Vlachos later remarked, “We deserved to win.” Greece will take on Hungary in Sunday’s final on 26 July at 6:15 pm AEST at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
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Photos Copyright Nick Bourdaniotis / Greek City Times
