Get ready for a splash of excitement as the Men’s European Water Polo Championships kick off in Belgrade 2026! Day 1 promises thrilling matchups that could redefine the sport’s landscape. But here’s where it gets controversial—will the underdogs rise, or will the giants dominate? Let’s dive into the previews.
Group A: 15.15 Hungary v France
Hungary, the undisputed kings of European water polo with 13 titles and 26 medals, are celebrating a monumental milestone—the 100th anniversary of their first European triumph in 1926. Since 1993, they’ve missed the semis only once (2018) and medaled 13 times. But here’s the twist: France, despite a silver in their 1927 debut, has struggled to reclaim glory until recently. In 2024, they stunned Hungary 11-10 in the World Championships quarterfinals, overcoming a four-goal halftime deficit. Will history repeat itself? Adding to the drama, Hungary’s coach Zsolt Varga and France’s Vjekoslav Kobescak were once teammates and roommates—talk about a clash of loyalties!
Group A: 18.00 Malta v Montenegro
Malta, a frequent finisher in the 15th-16th spots, faces Montenegro, the 2008 debutants who immediately claimed the European title. Montenegro’s coach, Dejan Savic, led Serbia to victory in 2016—in Belgrade, no less—defeating Montenegro in the final. And this is the part most people miss: Montenegro’s recent form has been shaky, finishing 6th in 2024. Can Malta capitalize on this vulnerability?
Group C: 12.45 Israel v Spain
Israel, in their fourth appearance, faces Spain, the reigning European, World, and World Cup champions. Spain’s dominance is undeniable—they’ve medaled in every major event since 2018, except the Olympics. But here’s the question: Can Israel pull off the unthinkable against the unstoppable Spaniards? Fun fact: Spain’s only regular-time loss in the last four editions was to Hungary in 2022.
Group C: 20.30 Netherlands v Serbia
The Netherlands, once a bronze medalist in 1938, has struggled in recent years, finishing 11th in the last two editions. Meanwhile, Serbia, the hosts, boast five titles since independence and eight European golds since 2001. But here’s where it gets controversial: Serbia has failed to reach the semis in the last three editions. Will the home crowd propel them to victory, or will the Dutch upset the odds? Fun fact: Since Serbia’s 2006 home win, host nations have dominated, winning or reaching the final in 8 of the last 10 editions.
Thought-provoking question for you: With Serbia’s recent struggles and Spain’s dominance, is this the year an underdog like France or Malta makes a historic run? Let us know in the comments!
Stay tuned to the European Aquatics Water Polo social media accounts for live updates on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Euro.Waterpolo) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/euro.waterpolo/).
Gergely Csurka for European Aquatics
