Water Polo Madness in Singapore: Ivica Tucak’s Magical 15-Man Squad!
Get ready, water polo fans! The Croatian national team is heading to the World Championship in Singapore, and coach Ivica Tucak has finally revealed who’s going to represent our country! Yes, you read that right — 15 players, plus one secret backup who could change everything at the last minute.
Who’s in, who’s out?
Unfortunately, third goalkeeper Ivan Jurišić, Vlaho Pavlić, and Roko Akrap didn’t make the final cut. But don’t worry, Andrija Bašić is the 16th player, ready to jump in if any injury happens. Tucak made it clear: “Bašić is coming with us, not planned to play, but he’s there just in case.” So, no slacking off, guys!
The heroes on the field
Goalkeepers Marko Bijač and Toni Popadić will guard the net, while centers Josip Vrlić and Luka Lončar are ready to smash the opponents’ defense. On the left side, we have Luka Bukić, Loren Fatović, Franko Lazić, and Tin Brubnjak; on the right, Konstantin Harkov, Marko Žuvela, Ante Vukičević, and Zvonimir Butić. Defenders Rino Burić, Matias Biljaka, and Filip Kržić complete the squad.
Preparations and expectations
Croatia showed its teeth in preparations — they beat Italy twice, once on penalties and once convincingly. The team gathered on July 2 in Zagreb, and by July 11, they’re off to Hong Kong to acclimate before moving to Singapore.
The tournament kicks off on July 12 against China at 2:45 PM, then on July 14 they face Montenegro at 10 AM, and the group stage ends on July 16 against Greece, also at 10 AM.
What to expect?
The Croatian water polo team has always been strong, and with this lineup and preparation, expectations are sky-high. Even though some players dropped out, Tucak believes this team is ready to fight till the last breath.
Final thoughts
If you love water polo or just good sports drama, watch Croatia swim its way to the top in Singapore! And if you have a favorite player or think someone should have made the list, feel free to drop a comment — you know we love a good debate!
Who knows, maybe your favorite star will pull off a miracle and bring home the gold!
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