Greece Opens Campaign Seeking a Landmark Medal
The Greek men’s national water polo team arrives in Belgrade determined to end a century long wait for a European Championship medal, despite having collected 17 international honours across its history.
The European Championship has remained an elusive goal for Greece, which enters the 37th edition with 24 past appearances but no podium finish.
The tournament begins today in Belgrade and runs until 25 January, marking the 100 year anniversary of the event and raising expectations for a historic achievement.
Greece enters the pool as the bronze medallist from the World Championship in Singapore and sets its sights firmly on a top 3 placement.
The national team previously approached the brink of a medal twice, in 1999 and 2016, but finished 4th after losses to Italy and Hungary.
Top Contenders and Tournament Outlook
Main rivals for the podium include reigning world champion Spain, host nation Serbia, Croatia, Hungary and Italy, placing Greece among a powerful field of challengers.
Greece twice came within reach of a medal in 1999 and 2016 before settling for 4th place.
The squad enters the championship with cautious optimism, reinforced by strong performances in recent preparation matches.
Coach Thodoris Vlachos emphasises the team’s composure, stating that the players remain calm, confident and aware of their quality.
Vlachos expresses trust in the group’s ability to finally claim a European medal.
Belgrade Hosts a Centenary Edition
Belgrade welcomes the European Championship for the 3rd time, having previously staged the event in 2006 and 2016.
This edition becomes the first to stage men’s matches in a 25 metre pool and the first to separate the men’s and women’s tournaments, with the women’s event set for Funchal from 26 January to 5 February.
The Belgrade Arena hosts the competition with a temporary pool installed earlier this week.
Group Allocations
Group A: Montenegro, France, Hungary, Italy
Group B: Croatia, Greece, Georgia, Slovenia
Group C: Serbia, Netherlands, Spain, Israel
Group D: Romania, Turkey, Italy, Slovakia
Schedule for the First Three Days
Saturday
Israel vs Spain 13.45
France vs Hungary 16.15
Malta vs Montenegro 19.00
Netherlands vs Serbia 21.30
Sunday
Turkey vs Italy 13.45
Romania vs Slovakia 16.15
Slovenia vs Croatia 19.00
Greece vs Georgia 21.30
Monday
Malta vs France 13.45
Hungary vs Montenegro 16.15
Netherlands vs Israel 19.00
Spain vs Serbia 21.30
