by croatiaweek
January 13, 2026
in
(Photo credit: HVS)
Croatia have secured qualification for the second round of the European Water Polo Championships in Belgrade after a commanding 18–7 victory over Georgia in their second match of the opening group stage.
Following an emphatic 20–4 win against Slovenia in their tournament opener, Croatia confirmed their place in the next phase with another assured performance.
The match against Georgia was competitive in the opening quarter, which Croatia edged 3–2, but the contest quickly swung decisively in their favour. A dominant second quarter, won 4–0, allowed Croatia to take full control, heading into half-time with a 7–2 lead.
Croatia maintained their intensity after the break, winning the third quarter 5–2 before closing the match strongly with a 6–3 final period to seal the convincing 18–7 result.
Konstantin Kharkov led the scoring for Croatia with four goals, while Luka Bukić added three. Loren Fatović, Luka Lončar, Josip Vrlić and Franko Lazić each contributed two goals as Croatia spread the scoring load across the team.
With two wins from two matches, Croatia have now mathematically secured progression to the second round, where a new group will be formed. Results from the first phase will carry over, making every remaining point crucial in the race for a semi-final place.
(Photo credit: HVS)
Croatia will next against Greece on Thursday at 20:30. A victory would allow Croatia to carry the maximum number of points into the second round.