The big water polo competition is back in Podgorica after 16 years - after the World League, it's time for the World Cup Super Final, super important for Montenegro.
The capital of our country will host eight strong national teams from tomorrow (Friday) to Sunday, and one of the strongest in the world will be the first rival of the "Sharks".
Dejan Savić's team will play against Croatia at 20.30:XNUMX PM, and a triumph would not only secure them a place in the semifinals, but would also practically open the door to the World Cup, which will be held in Singapore in July and August.
"The roar from the stands would mean extra to us in the pool. This is a great opportunity for everyone - both the youngest and the rest - to come and witness a top-notch match, which I expect it to be against Croatia," said captain Petar Tešanović.
Center Miroslav Perković had a similar message.
"This tournament certainly means a lot to us, because first and foremost, a victory over Croatia leads to the World Cup, which is our goal. In addition, we have an opportunity that is not so common - to play in front of the home crowd, our friends, families, which is perhaps the most beautiful feeling - in our own pool, in our own country."
Barracudas in strong formation
Croatia arrives in Podgorica without several players who won silver medals at the Paris Olympics, such as Jerko Marinić Kragić, Matias Biljaka, Luka Bukić and Toni Popadić.
However, coach Ivica Tucak has prepared a very powerful team with Marko Bijač, Loren Fatović, Josip Vrlić, Rin Burić, Luka Lončar, Konstantin Harkov...
"The list itself says that they came to play with all their might and they certainly won't let us go to the World Championship without a big fight. They have excellent individuals, they are a well-coordinated team, at the top of world water polo, they are playing excellently," emphasized Perković.
Although the "barracudas" have been at the top for years, the "sharks" have often been one of their toughest rivals.
"In the past, we have shown that we can play with them, that we are equal rivals. We will do our best to make it look right," the Montenegrin "anchorman" is clear.
What kind of match can fans expect in the stands of the "Morača" swimming pool?
"Hard and difficult, where in the end, despite tactics and preparation, desire will decide who is more aggressive, who fights harder," believes Perković.
Croatia is calm when it comes to qualifying for the World Cup, just like Hungary and Spain from the tournament in Podgorica, while for Montenegro a win is imperative. Could everything be a big pressure for the "sharks"?
"We've all played in big competitions and every game carries a certain burden. I feel that it's a positive feeling, I hope my teammates feel the same way," says the Novi Beograd center.
Attack is emphasized, but defense brings victories
Just as was the case with the qualifying tournament in Bucharest, they will play in Podgorica under the new rules, in a smaller pool, with a shorter time for attack...
"Although the new rules emphasize attacking play, medals and victories are brought by a strong defense. We have enough quality and great potential to put all of that into practice," captain Tešanović is clear.
He says about his rival.
"This is a top team that has won medals in the previous three competitions. We are familiar with their qualities, I think we know each other well and there won't be too many surprises."
Coach Savić's list does not include several players from previous gatherings, such as Jovan Vujović, Vlado Popadić, Bogdan Đurđić, Savo Ćetković is also absent, while Vasilije Radović will also miss the match against the Croats due to suspension.
"The coach assessed that everyone should be given a chance, and I don't think there is a big difference between the players. I hope we will meet our goal and qualify for the World Cup," concluded Tešanović.
The three best teams from the tournament in Pogorica, other than Croatia, Hungary and Spain, will qualify for the World Cup.
DON'T MISS IT
Fan zone and LED display in front of the pool
Daily tickets for the Superfinal will be sold in two sessions and cost ten euros, and since it is known that the stands at the SC "Morača" swimming pool cannot accommodate a large number of fans, the Water Polo and Swimming Association also thought about those who do not have tickets.
An LED display will be installed in front of the pool, which will broadcast all matches.
There will be a fan zone and a program that will start at 17 pm on all three days, which will include a DJ program and viewing of the matches.
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