Get ready for a water polo frenzy because Croatia is not only defending the men’s world champion title but also making a historic debut with the women’s team at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore! Yes, you read that right – for the first time ever, Croatian women’s water polo team is stepping into the pool on the biggest global stage, and their story is a drama worth watching.
Men’s Team: Title Defenders with High Hopes
Croatian men’s water polo team, fresh off winning gold at last year’s World Championship, silver at the European Championship, and the Olympics, enter the tournament as favorites. They are placed in Group D alongside Montenegro, Greece, and China. Their first match is on July 12 against China, expected to be an easy win, but the real test comes in the second round against Montenegro, a nail-biter last year decided by a goal in the final three seconds. Bookmakers have set the odds for winning the group at 2.10, signaling a fierce battle for first place and direct quarterfinal qualification.
Women’s Team: Young and Brave Underdogs
Unlike the men, Croatia’s women’s team is a debutant at this level and enters as underdogs in Group C with Greece, Hungary, and Japan. Greece and Hungary are serious medal contenders with strong track records, while Japan is the weakest opponent. Croatia’s women’s team is one of the youngest in the tournament – 13 players are between 16 and 20 years old! Coach Mia Šimunić has made it clear there’s no pressure for results, but the team will fight bravely and give their all. Their first match is on July 11 against Japan, with odds of 4.70 for a Croatian win, highlighting their underdog status.
Favorites and Odds: Who Will Take the Gold?
In the men’s competition, Hungary and Spain are the main favorites with odds of 4.00 and 4.50, followed by Serbia and Italy at 5.00. Croatia ranks fifth with odds of 7.00, tied with Greece. For the women, Spain is the favorite at 2.00, followed by the Netherlands, USA, and Hungary. Croatia is among the six teams with the highest odds, meaning they are realistic underdogs but with big hearts and a hunger to prove themselves.
Where to Watch and What to Expect?
All matches featuring Croatian teams will be broadcast on HRT 2. The schedule is packed and unpredictable. The men play key matches on July 12, 14, and 16, while the women start on July 11 and continue on the 13th and 15th. Expect a water polo feast full of drama and young talents eager to make history.
Conclusion: Water Polo Madness in Singapore!
Croatian water polo is on fire! The men are defending their title with a shot at another gold, while the women are making history with their first-ever World Championship appearance. Will the young women pull off an upset? Will the men live up to their favorite status? One thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a spectacle full of emotion, fight, and unpredictability.
If you thought water polo was boring, it’s time to change your mind! Check out the schedule, cheer for our teams, and don’t forget – the comments section is perfect for throwing shade, cracking jokes, or sharing your predictions. Who knows, maybe you’ll call the next world champion!
Dive into the water polo madness and watch Croatia swim towards new victories!
