The Dutch water polosters have reached the semi-finals of the European Championship in Croatia with a great display of power. The team of national coach Evangelos Doudesis also crushed France in the quarterfinals in Split: 22-3 (3-0 5-2 7-0 7-1). The Orange squad will compete with Spain on Wednesday, which defeated Hungary 15-11, for a place in the European Championship final.
In the group stage, the Orange had won all matches with a big difference. Doudesis’ team defeated host country Croatia (22-6), Hungary (13-4), Greece (13-8), Romania (28-0) and Germany (29-3). With France, the Netherlands met the number 4 of the other group in the quarterfinals. The winner of the game between Spain and Hungary awaits in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
Maartje Keuning and Simone van de Kraats scored four times, Brigitte Sleeking scored three goals. The other goals came from Sabrina van der Sloot, Bente Rogge, Rozanne Voorvelt, Fleurien Bosveld (all two), Kitty Lynn Joustra, Iris Wolves and Vivian Sevenich.
The water polo players took bronze this summer at the World Championships in Budapest. The Netherlands became European champion four years ago, but finished in fourth place next to the podium at the European Championship in 2020.
Difficult
,,The difference is big, but France made it difficult for us in the first two quarters,’ said Doudesis. ,,We had to play really well to get away. It ended up being an easy game, but it wasn’t in the beginning. Respect for France. We go into all matches the same, regardless of who the opponent is. I am pleased that we can continue our form at this European Championship.”
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