Greece’s women’s water polo team has made history, defeating reigning world champions the United States 14-10 to reach the final of the World Championships for just the second time.

In a performance marked by passion and maturity — especially given the squad’s youth — coach Haris Pavlidis’ team delivered a thrilling upset in Singapore.

Greece will now face either Spain or Hungary in Wednesday’s final (23 July, 16:35 Greek time), aiming to repeat its 2011 triumph in Shanghai.

Key performances came from centre-forward Eleftheria Xenaki and defender Margarita Plevritou, while goalkeeper Chrysi Stamatopoulou was instrumental with 12 saves. Vaso Plevritou sealed the win with three goals in the final minutes.

The entire squad contributed to what will go down as a landmark victory in Greek water polo.

The match began with early dominance from the USA, who went 2-0 up through Lineback and Flynn. But Greece responded with goals from Santa and Eleftheria Plevritou to level the score at 2-2 by the end of the first quarter.

In the second period, Greece found momentum. Vaso Plevritou, Xenaki and Triha pushed the score to 5-3 before a penalty by Neushul narrowed the lead. Despite a questionable referee decision denying Greece a penalty, Xenaki scored again for a 6-4 lead.

Another penalty allowed the USA to make it 6-5 at the half, but Greece appeared in control.

The third quarter started shakily for Greece, with the USA reclaiming the lead 7-6. But a crucial goal by Maria Myriokefalitaki steadied nerves. Greece struck on the counter through Patra, and Santa made it 9-8 before the end of the period.

Missed chances with the extra player had plagued Greece throughout, but they finally found rhythm in the fourth. Santa’s goal made it 10-8. Though the USA quickly responded, Greece’s defence stood firm during two crucial man-down situations.

Xenaki reasserted the lead at 11-9, and then Vaso Plevritou took over — scoring three consecutive goals to lock in the 14-10 victory.

The final whistle confirmed a famous win over the world champions, setting up a shot at global glory.

Match summary:

Quarters: 2-2, 4-3, 3-3, 5-2

Top scorers: Vaso Plevritou 4, Xenaki 3, Santa 3

Greece: 3/10 on power plays, 5 goals from the perimeter, 4 from centre-forward, 1 on counter, 1 drive

USA: 1/9 on power plays, 3/3 penalties, 6 goals from the perimeter

Greece lineup (coach: Haris Pavlidis):

Stamatopoulou, E. Plevritou (1), Triha (1), Santa (3), Giannopoulou, Xenaki (3), Ninu, Patra (1), Siouti, V. Plevritou (4), Tornarou, Myriokefalitaki (1), Tzourka, Koureta

USA lineup (coach: Adam Krikorian):

Longan, Striker (1), Prentice, Pearson, Flynn (1), Bonaguidi, Sekulic, Neushul (2), Roemer (2), Lineback (2), Ausmus (2), Woodhead, Williams, Gassanniga

Source: AMNA