Greece’s women’s water polo team has advanced to the semi-finals of the World Championship in Singapore after defeating Australia 8–7 in a tense quarter-final.
Maria Myriokefalitaki scored the winning goal just 1.5 seconds before the final whistle, securing Greece’s place in the final four for the fourth time in its history—and the second consecutive tournament.
The match was tightly contested, with both teams showing strong defensive form in the early stages. The first period ended 1–1, and Greece gained its first lead in the second quarter through a lob by Eleftheria Plevritou. Vasiliki Santa extended the lead to 5–3 just before half-time.
Australia closed the gap in the third period, but Greece maintained its advantage. In the final quarter, Charlize Andrews equalised twice for Australia, the second time with 47 seconds remaining.
With nine seconds left, Andrews was penalised for an offensive foul. Greece launched a final counterattack, and Myriokefalitaki scored from about six metres to give her team the win.
Greece had 4/7 with a player advantage, 1/1 from the penalty spot, and scored twice on the counterattack. Australia had 3/5 with a player advantage and three goals from the perimeter.
Greece will likely face the United States in the semi-finals on Monday, with the American team expected to defeat Japan in their quarter-final.
Christina Siouti returned to the Greek squad after missing three games due to injury, replacing Nefeli Krassa in the 14-player roster.
