The Greek women’s water polo team triumphed over France with an impressive 11-4 victory on Sunday, concluding the first phase of the competition at the Paris Olympics.
Greece started strong, focusing on defense and quickly taking a 2-0 lead. However, France’s goalkeeper Mia Rycraw made several key saves, allowing the home team to go on a 3-0 run and take a 3-2 lead. Greece struggled offensively, going scoreless for 11 minutes and missing a penalty, which Rycraw saved. Eleni Xenaki finally broke the drought with a close-range goal, tying the game 3-3 at halftime.
The Greek team continued their momentum in the second half, scoring four consecutive goals to lead 6-3. France’s Ema Vernoux managed to reduce the deficit with a penalty in the final minute of the third period. However, two quick goals from Vasiliki Plevritou and Xenaki early in the fourth period sealed the victory for Greece. The final score reached 11-4.
Although Greece had the chance to secure a higher point differential, which would have given them third place, this outcome would have paired them against the formidable Netherlands.
Instead, Greece will face Australia in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, August 7, at 3am (Australian time).
This decisive win demonstrates Greece’s strong defensive and offensive capabilities as they advance to the next stage of the competition.
