Get ready for a water polo showdown like no other! Hungary and Serbia are set to battle it out for European gold in Belgrade 2026, and the road to the final has been nothing short of thrilling. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the most unpredictable championship yet? Let’s dive into the action that has everyone talking.
Hungary secured their spot in the gold medal game after a defensive masterclass and some clinical precision in man-up situations, leaving Greece in their wake. The Greeks started strong, leading 3-1 early on, but Hungary’s rock-solid defense and an impressive 8 out of 9 shots on extra sealed their victory. This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. And this is the part most people miss: Hungary’s ability to shut down their opponents’ attack while capitalizing on their own opportunities has been their secret weapon.
Later, hosts Serbia delivered a powerhouse performance against Italy, thrilling thousands of fans in the Belgrade Arena. Dusan Mandic and Strahinja Rasovic were unstoppable, each scoring four goals, as Serbia powered their way to a 17-13 victory. This marks their third consecutive European Championships final on home soil, and the crowd’s energy was electric. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can Serbia’s home advantage truly tip the scales against a Hungarian team firing on all cylinders?
Men’s 2026 European Water Polo Championships – Belgrade
Day 14, Friday 23 January
Semi-finals
- Greece 12-15 Hungary
- Serbia 17-13 Italy
In what many are calling one of the most breathtaking games in recent memory, Hungary outlasted Greece in a match filled with stunning combinations and tactical brilliance. Both teams showcased their offensive prowess, but Hungary’s defense proved the difference. After conceding five goals in the first eight minutes, they tightened up, allowing only seven more in the remaining three quarters. This defensive shift secured their third final appearance in five editions.
The game started with a bang: a penalty converted by Konstantinos Genidounias, followed by Krisztian Manhercz’s jaw-dropping perimeter shot. Greece’s Dimitrios Skoumpakis and Nikolaos Gkillas kept the pressure on, but Hungary’s David Tatrai and Akos Nagy quickly responded, leveling the score. The back-and-forth continued, with Vendel Vigvari’s clean shot and a crucial block keeping Hungary within striking distance.
The second period saw Manhercz equalize at 5-5, but the real turning point came when Stylianos Argyropoulos’ exclusion sidelined Greece’s scoring machine. Hungary capitalized, with Manhercz and Adam Nagy extending their lead. Despite Greece’s efforts, including a magnificent combination by Konstantinos Kakaris, Hungary’s clinical finishing and Soma Vogel’s goalkeeping heroics kept them ahead.
As the game progressed, Hungary’s dominance became undeniable. Vogel’s saves and Hungary’s relentless offense built a three-goal lead, leaving Greece scrambling. Even a late surge by the Greeks, including Kakaris’s stunning lob, couldn’t close the gap. With just 44 seconds left, Vigvari’s wing shot sealed Hungary’s victory, sending them to the final in sensational fashion.
Serbia 17-13 Italy
Unlike their previous nail-biters against Hungary and Spain, Serbia dominated Italy from the start. Despite losing captain Nikola Jaksic to a red card late in the second period, they maintained control. Italy, looking out of sorts in the packed arena, couldn’t mount a comeback, thanks in part to Milan Glusac’s 14 saves, which earned him the MVP Award.
Serbia’s Dusan Mandic and Strahinja Rasovic were on fire, each scoring four goals, while Italy struggled to find their rhythm. By the third quarter, Serbia had built a four-goal lead, and Italy’s missed opportunities only widened the gap. Even a late Italian push couldn’t spoil Serbia’s party, setting up a Hungary vs. Serbia final—a rematch 20 years in the making.
Watch all the action live from Belgrade 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 social media via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Euro.Waterpolo) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/euro.waterpolo/).
Gergely Csurka for European Aquatics
Now, here’s the burning question: Who will take home the gold—the defensively stout Hungarians or the home-favorite Serbs? Let the debate begin in the comments!
