Greece secured a thrilling 15-13 win over Italy in Belgrade to qualify for the European Water Polo Championship semifinals. Led by the scoring prowess of Argyropoulos and the dominance of Kakaris at center, the Greek team led from start to finish.
The semifinal is scheduled for Friday night (Jan 23), where Greece will face either Serbia, Spain, or Hungary. Before that, however, they must complete their group stage campaign against Romania on Wednesday (Jan 21).
Explosive start for Greece’s water polo team
Greece got off to an explosive start, anchored by a rock-solid defense. Goals from Argyropoulos and Kakaris provided an early 2-0 lead, though a late defensive lapse allowed Italy to pull one back, ending the first period at 2-1.
Related: Precision, Power, Gold: Greece Wins Women’s Water Polo World Cup
The pace quickened in the second quarter as both offenses found their rhythm. Thodoris Vlachos’ side maintained the upper hand, with Argyropoulos netting two more goals. Skoumpakis and Gillas also found the back of the net, extending the lead to 6-4 by halftime. A pivotal moment occurred at the buzzer when a successful challenge by the Greek coach resulted in a penalty, which Argyropoulos converted to maintain the two-goal cushion.
Greece refused to take their foot off the gas in the third period. Kakaris was dominant at the center position, winning crucial duels and scoring to help Greece edge the quarter 4-3, leading 10-7 heading into the final frame.
In the fourth quarter, Italy mounted a desperate comeback attempt. However, Greece remained composed under pressure. Vlachos’ men responded every time the game hung in the balance, never allowing the Italians to close the gap to less than two goals.
Quarter scores: 2-1, 4-3, 4-3, 5-6.
Related: Greek Men’s Water Polo Team Secures Historic World Championship Bronze
