From the special reporter "Vijesti"
The best Montenegrin water polo player, Aleksandar Ivović, says that the "sharks" in Tokyo did not have what it takes to make up for the lack of quality compared to the strongest selections.
"Everything was missing. We didn't have that chemistry, energy, aggressiveness and combativeness, we didn't have what in water polo jargon they say 'to make the water foam,'" Ivović pointed out.
Early this morning, Montenegro was eliminated in the OI quarterfinals with a convincing defeat by Greece 10:4.
"We didn't expect this, we had a lot of optimism because of the last two competitions, but the Olympic Games are something different compared to what we played and we were definitely not the team we were in those two competitions," adds Ivović, referring to the qualifying tournament for the OI in Rotterdam and the World League.
Greece was the most desirable rival before the quarter-finals, but...
"We thought we could play with them because, unlike others, the Greeks play a little softer and slower water polo. However, they have several shooters who, when you leave them at eight meters and you think it's not a chance, they give you a goal and completely disturb you. We also quickly lost three players in the rotation, Brguljan, Spaić and Petković, and when that happened it was very difficult to play the game physically."
All this should be seen from the positive side, Ivović points out.
"Nevertheless, there were 10 debutants, from the previous generation Draško and I knew what it was like to play at the Olympic Games. I believe that they have removed the burden of pressure that comes with participating in the OI and that they could work with this experience in the coming period are good things and bring some of the medals from major competitions".
Montenegro, Ivović points out, is the first of the major national teams to start changing generations.
"That's why I expect that these boys will affirm Montenegrin water polo in the right way".
With Aleksandar Ivović - at least at the World Championship, which will also be played in Japan (Fukuoka) next year.
"I don't lack motivation, these guys did good things in the previous year, they gave me an extra incentive to push on. Also, I play in Pro Rek, I train seriously and I believe that I will be in shape. I'm sorry that it's like this ended, but this is currently the reality of our team," adds Ivović.
Bonus video:
