Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
In the World Aquatics Championships water polo tournament, the United States led Montenegro through the first three periods, but Montenegro won the final period 5-4. However, Montenegro's comeback was not enough to change the overall result. Spain was defeated by Croatia, ending Spain’s quest for a first championship title. The first two periods of the Spain-Croatia match were tied, and Spain forced a shootout opportunity with a last-minute goal, but Croatia ultimately won. As a result, Croatia secured a medal while the United States did not place at this level.
In other semifinals, Greece overcame reigning champion Hungary with an 18-13 score, and Serbia defeated Italy 18-15. In the Round 9-12 semifinals, New Zealand beat China 13-8, and Turkiye continued its strong run by defeating Canada 19-15. The Turkiye-Canada match was closely contested through the first three periods before Turkiye pulled ahead decisively. Key performers included Turkiye’s Aymen Altay and Demir Gulsoy, along with goalkeeper Deniz Kaleagasi.
Other classification games saw South Africa narrowly beating Argentina 11-10 for 17th place, and Portugal defeating host Hong Kong 20-9 for 19th. Upcoming scheduled matches include Singapore vs. Colombia, Australia vs. Brazil, China vs. Canada, New Zealand vs. Turkiye, Hungary vs. Italy, Greece vs. Serbia, Montenegro vs. Spain, and the United States vs. Croatia.