Singapore – July 19, 2025 – The women’s water polo tournament at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships delivered a series of electrifying quarter-final matches today, marked by an upset, a dominant performance, a tight battle, and a dramatic penalty shootout. Greece, the United States, Hungary, and Spain have all emerged victorious, securing their coveted spots in the semifinals.
In a stunning upset that reverberated through the aquatic center, Greece pulled off a significant victory against the Olympic silver medalists Australia, with a narrow 8-7 final score. The Greek team showcased incredible resilience and tactical prowess, controlling key moments of the game (quarter scores: 1-1, 4-2, 1-2, 2-2) to overcome the formidable Australian squad, sending a clear message to the rest of the competition.
Meanwhile, the reigning champions, the United States of America, continued their dominant run by decisively beating Japan 26-8. The U.S. were way to strong for Japan, reaffirming their status as strong contenders for the gold medal. While Japan’s historic run to the quarter-finals was commendable, they faced an insurmountable challenge against the American powerhouse.
The clash between Hungary and Italy lived up to its billing as a fiercely contested encounter, with Hungary ultimately prevailing 12-9. The Hungarians displayed strong control throughout the match (quarter scores: 3-3, 3-2, 4-2, 2-2), holding off the determined Italian charge to secure their semifinal berth.
The most dramatic match of the day saw Spain emerge victorious over the Netherlands in a nail-biting penalty shootout after the teams were tied 11-11 at the end of regular time, with the Netherlands coming back from 4 goals down to tie the match in the fourth quarter . The intensity of the rivalry, a rematch of the Olympic Semi final, was evident throughout the game. Following the deadlock, Spain held their nerve in the penalty shootout, converting crucial shots to win 15-13 and advance to the semifinals.
The stage is now set for highly anticipated semifinal matchups as these four elite nations continue their quest for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships title.