Get ready for a thrilling Day 6 at the Belgrade 2026 European Water Polo Championships, where every match could rewrite the tournament’s narrative! But here’s where it gets controversial: can underdogs rise to the occasion, or will favorites dominate the pool? Let’s dive into the previews—and trust us, you won’t want to miss these matchups.
Group D: Türkiye vs. Slovakia (12:45)
In a high-stakes showdown, Türkiye and Slovakia battle for the final qualifying spot in Group D. Both teams are reeling from consecutive losses, but don’t let that fool you—this match is far from a formality. Slovakia holds a commanding 4-0 head-to-head record, yet their recent victories have been anything but easy. Last June in Istanbul, Slovakia narrowly escaped with a 13-12 win, proving Türkiye is no pushover. And this is the part most people miss: Slovakia’s head coach, Roman Polacik, is a water polo legend. With 13 national titles across eight countries and a Champions League trophy with POSK Split in 1999, his resume is unparalleled. Will his expertise tip the scales, or can Türkiye pull off the upset? What do you think—is Polacik’s legacy enough to secure Slovakia’s spot?
Group D: Romania vs. Italy (15:15)
Italy enters this clash as the undisputed favorite, but Romania won’t go down without a fight. Since Sandro Campagna’s return as Italy’s head coach in 2009, the Settebello has dominated Romania in all 12 meetings. However, their 2016 Olympic qualifier was a nail-biter, with Italy scraping by 8-7. Here’s the twist: Romania’s head coach, Bogdan Rath, once played for Italy, winning silver at the 2001 European Championships under Campagna’s guidance. Now, he’s on the opposite bench, plotting to end Italy’s streak. Is this the day Romania finally breaks through, or will Italy’s dominance continue?
Group B: Slovenia vs. Georgia (18:00)
In a battle of winless teams, Slovenia and Georgia face off for their first-ever meeting. Georgia is favored, but Slovenia has a secret weapon: head coach Mirko Vicevic, a 1988 Olympic gold medalist with Yugoslavia. Fun fact: Vicevic is one of several Olympic champions now coaching at these championships, alongside Italy’s Campagna and Hungary’s Zsolt Varga. Will his experience inspire Slovenia to victory, or will Georgia solidify their favorite status? Who’s your pick in this historic matchup?
Group B: Greece vs. Croatia (20:30)
This heavyweight clash could shape the semi-final picture. Croatia leads the head-to-head 20-5 over the past 15 years, including a heart-stopping 10-9 win at the 2025 Worlds. However, Greece’s 2022 World Championship bronze medal win over Croatia ended the latter’s nine-year podium streak—a reminder that anything can happen. Here’s the kicker: Greece has never beaten Croatia at the European Championships, despite four draws in 13 meetings. With veteran coaches Ivica Tucak (Croatia) and Theodoros Vlachos (Greece) at the helm, this match promises tactical brilliance. Will Greece finally break their European curse, or will Croatia extend their dominance?
Don’t miss a second of the action—watch live on Eurovision Sport (https://eurovisionsport.com/). For the full schedule, results, and tables, visit https://europeanaquatics.org/ewpc-2026/belgrade/schedule-and-results/#/schedule-bydate/ASM. Grab your tickets at https://tickets.rs/tour/europeanaquaticswaterpolochampionshipmenbelgrade20262321 and stay updated on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Euro.Waterpolo) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/euro.waterpolo/).
Now, we want to hear from you: Which match are you most excited for? And do you think any underdogs will pull off a surprise win? Let’s debate in the comments!
