Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
In the Women's Division I water polo tournament, the United States secured an early top-four spot by defeating Japan 28-8 in Group A, demonstrating control throughout and converting all extra-player and penalty attempts. Key USA players included Ryann Neushul, Emily Ausmus, and Jovana Sekulic, who each scored multiple goals.
Spain also advanced from Group A after winning against Hungary 15-9, finishing one point ahead of the USA and five clear of Hungary, thus securing the group win.
Group B was more competitive, with the Netherlands unbeaten until a 12-10 loss to Italy, who had recently won a penalty shootout against Australia. Australia then defeated Greece 13-10 in the final match. The Netherlands finished first in their group with six points, followed by Italy with five, Australia with four, and Greece with three. Greece missed qualification by a margin of three goals.
As host nation, Australia is automatically qualified for the Sydney Finals, leaving one berth for Greece, Hungary, and Japan. The upcoming matches, especially Greece versus Hungary, will be decisive in determining the final qualifier.
The top four teams gain valuable international experience and establish their rankings ahead of the World Cup Finals draw.