Greece defeated Italy 15–11 in a winning start to the women’s water polo World Cup qualifiers in Rotterdam.
The team, coached by Haris Pavlidis, secured victory in the opening match of Group B, taking the first step towards qualification for the finals in Sydney. Greece entered the tournament as defending champions after winning last year’s title in China.
After an evenly contested opening, with the score tied 3–3, Greece held Italy scoreless for nearly 11 minutes and built a 6–3 lead through goals from Myriokefalitaki, Patra and Vasso Plevritou.
Greece maintained control despite limited efficiency on the power play, extending its advantage to 10–6 by the end of the third period. Italy suffered setbacks during this phase, losing Ranalli to a substitution dismissal and Gant to three exclusions.
Italy responded in the final quarter, reducing the deficit to 10–8 and then 11–10, but Greece regained momentum at a crucial stage. Goals from Koureta and two from Santa restored a safe lead at 14–11, sealing the victory.
Greece will next face host nation Netherlands, which defeated Australia 14–8, in its second group match.
