Defending World Cup champions Greece advanced to the semifinals of the Women’s Water Polo World Championships hosted in Singapore after a dramatic 8–7 win over Australia, sealed by a last-second goal from Maria Myriokefalitaki.
With just two seconds left on the clock, Myriokefalitaki capitalized on a late Australian turnover and delivered a stunning breakaway goal, sending Greece into the final four in Singapore and exacting revenge after two previous quarterfinal losses to the Australians.
Greece, known for its defensive discipline, executed a near-flawless game plan, frustrating Australia’s typically potent offense and holding the lead for most of the match. The Greeks entered the tournament ranked third in their group and faced a well-rested Australian side that had topped its own group and earned an extra day off.
Tactical Discipline and Timely Goals
The match began with an early strike from Australia’s Abby Andrews, but Greece quickly equalized through Eirini Ninou. Both sides struggled to convert chances in a first quarter marked by tight marking, mispasses, and wayward shooting.
Greece took control in the second period, outscoring the Australians 4–2. Captain Eleftheria Plevritou and Stefania Santa each added critical goals, with Santa’s second giving Greece a 5–3 lead just before halftime. A rock-solid Greek defense held the Australians scoreless for long stretches, disrupting their rhythm and denying clear entries.
Australia mounted a brief comeback in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to one goal. Charlize Andrews and Tilly Kearns found the net, but the Greeks remained composed under pressure.
In the fourth quarter, the intensity reached its peak. After Charlize Andrews tied the match at 6–6, Plevritou responded swiftly to regain the lead. Then, with under a minute left, Australia’s Danijela Jackovich struck from close range on a power play, appearing to push the match toward a possible shootout.
But in a twist of fate, Greece reclaimed possession with seconds remaining, and Myriokefalitaki sprinted forward, launching a daring shot from range that slipped past Australian goalkeeper Gabriella Palm, securing an unforgettable victory.
Looking Ahead
Greece now awaits the winner of the quarterfinal between the United States and Japan. Barring an upset, the Greek squad is likely to face the powerhouse U.S. team in what promises to be a high-stakes semifinal clash.
Head coach Charis Pavlidis, who took over the national team in November 2024, has now led Greece into the top four of a major tournament with a combination of tactical discipline and clutch execution.
