Serbia wins men's water polo tournament at FINA Worlds

Before the final match, Croatia and Serbia were undefeated in the tournament. Both teams easily made it through the group stage and then consistently demonstrated their superiority over rivals in the quarterfinals and semifinals. This was actually to be expected considering the achievements these teams brought with them to the capital of Tatarstan.

Croatia is the current Olympic champion and for the past eight years has always had a place on the World Championships podium.

Serbia is the current World Series champion and won the Balkan tournament three consecutive years (2013, 2014, 2015). Their other major titles include the 2011 World Championships silver medal and 2012 Olympic bronze medal.

Croatia scored in the starting minutes of the final match, but Serbia found the strength to come back from a score of 0-2 and then took the lead.  This sporting mini-achievement inspired Serbia. Before half time, the team made a serious bid for the ultimate success, showing us their teamwork - 5-2.

Immediately after half time, Serbia increased their lead to triple the number of Croatia's goals - 6-2. Subsequent scoring of goals between the teams did not change the outlook of the game. Furthermore, Serbia dominated the final minutes of the match, leading to a wide margin of victory - 11-4.

FINA Worlds 2015. Water polo.

Men. Final.

Croatia vs Serbia – 4-11 (2-2, 0-3, 2-2, 0-4)

Water Polo Arena. August 8

Press Office of Organising Committee for 16th FINA World Championships