In a breathtaking performance, Greece’s women’s national water polo team stunned powerhouse USA with a 14-10 victory, securing their place in the final of the World Championship held in Singapore, on Monday. This marks only the second time in history that Greece has reached the final, following their remarkable run in Shanghai back in 2011.
No words can quite capture the brilliance of this team led by coach Charis Pavlidis. With a defensive masterclass and a diverse offensive display, the Greek side managed to outplay one of the sport’s most dominant forces, writing a golden chapter in their sporting journey.
Greece prepares to compete with Hungary, who defeated Spain 15-9 on Monday evening. The race for the gold is set for Wednesday.
It is reminded, that Hungary beat Greece 10-9 in the opening match of the group stage earlier this month.
A Match to Remember
From the opening whistle, the game unfolded as anticipated—intense, tactical, and defense-driven. The Americans struck first, with Emma Lineback scoring two minutes into the match, followed shortly by a penalty goal from Flynn to make it 2-0.
But Greece responded swiftly and decisively. Within a minute, Stefania Santa and Captain Eleftheria Plevritou each found the net, leveling the score at 2-2 by the end of the first quarter.
The second period began with the USA briefly regaining the lead, but Greece fired back with a 3-0 scoring run, turning the tide and taking a 5-3 advantage. Despite some questionable refereeing decisions, the Greek squad maintained composure and went into halftime leading 6-5.
In the third quarter, the Americans regrouped and briefly pulled ahead 7-6 and 8-7. Yet, Greece showed grit and resilience. Santa once again gave Greece the lead, and from that moment on, the team never looked back.
With Ioanna Stamatiopoulou putting on a goalkeeping clinic and the attack firing on all cylinders, Greece surged to a 4-1 run in the final period, putting the game out of reach. The 14-10 final score sealed an unforgettable victory—and a historic spot in the championship final.
Coach Charis Pavlidis and his players now turn their focus to the ultimate prize: gold.
