Team Serbia was fast to beat Italy (17:13) in the European Championship Semis in front of the packed Arena. Marking the 10th anniversary of their European gold at this very venue and the first time in eight years of reaching the final stages of the Euros.
Naturally, no match against Italy could be simple. The first quarter offered some of the best water polo of the tournament. Fast counter attacks and highlight-worthy transitions made sure this SF was a true treat of the sport.
Serbia kept their cool and finished on top with their excellent the defense, lead by the young keeper Milan Glušac with 14 saves, as well as the fire shot goals by Dušan Mandić.
The only dilemma we keep so far is whether or not captain Nikola Jakšić will be able to play in the final. Jakšić got a red card and an immediate expulsion, which gives him a 50-50 possibility of playing on Sunday. The ref committee decision will be known in the following 24 hours.
Serbian head coach Uroš Stevanović confirmed his hopes for the captain’s participation on Sunday, in front of the media postmatch. The plays after a red card are possible and well noted in recent sporting history.
The Dolphins marked their intro to the final on the 10th anniversary of the Belgrade Arena gold at the 2016 Euros. A wonderful jubilee for the new generation that is showing both strength and integrity worthy of any gold medal.
Serbia will play their final match against Hungary on Sunday at 20.30. No better chance for this squad to open the new Olympic cycle with true fireworks. All the seats have been sold out by Tuesday night.
*Editor’s update: Nikola Jakšić will be able to play in the final!
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