Croatia's U-16 water polo team won gold at the World Championship in Zagreb, defeating Spain 10-7 in a thrilling final. In a match watched by a packed crowd at SRC Mladost, the young Croatians showed exceptional fight and skill, with Deni Sappe named the tournament's best player.
How did Croatia become champions?
The final was tense until the last minute. Spain led 7-6 late in the game, but then the 'Baracudas' launched their final push. Srzić equalized, and then the defense, led by goalkeeper Luko Vezilić, became impenetrable. Domazet and Sappe sealed the win for Croatia, with the final score 10-7.
What does this gold mean for Croatian water polo?
This is the second world gold for young Croatian water polo players in a month. The older generation (under-18) won the title in Portugal, and now the younger ones have followed suit. Bruno Sabioni, coach of the U-16 team, said this was the best day of his life.
Who was the tournament's best player?
Deni Sappe, the tournament's best player, said he was full of emotion. He won gold with the under-18 team but didn't play due to illness. Now he's even happier as he actively helped his team become champions.
Croatia now has two generations of world champions in water polo, and the young players show that the future of the sport in Croatia is bright. League standing: 2nd in World Cup, 6 pts, 2W-0D-1L from 3 games, recent form LWWL.
