Once again, the Spanish women will compete in the European water polo final. They have earned the privilege this Thursday, after knocking down the Greeks in Eindhoven (13-5). There was no debate in the duel, decided by Miki Oca’s team from the first quarter, resolved 4-1. The Spanish team’s drive will allow them to defend their continental title against the winner of the Netherlands-Italy match that is being played so far. Two titles in one go. A third is emerging.
The efficiency of the double European champion cannot be disputed. These are the times of Miki Oca’s team, which has not been off the European podium since 2014. Their solvency has surpassed the Greeks, dwarfed by the Spanish. They have never had any options for revenge, sore as they were after their defeat against the Spanish in the final of the 2022 European Championship (9-6). The differences now have been insurmountable.
A good part of the Spanish success has been based on the effectiveness of their goalkeeper, Martina Terré, practically unsurpassed for the Greeks, and on the work of Maica García and Paula Leitón at the buoy. Both have been magnets for the Greek defenses, they have forced penalties and caused a carousel of expulsions among the Greeks. Judith Forca, with three goals (she has thirteen in the tournament), has made the most of all that.
The numerical superiorities have lightened the exercise of the Spanish, only answered by Eleni Xenaki, Greek star, who has added three goals. In reality, it has been little for Miki Oca’s solid block, a combination of effective veterans (Anni Espar, Paula Crespí, Bea Ortiz) and promising young players, such as Isabel Pivalkova.
