Frustrating!
After two victories acquired at the expense of Brazil (16-11), then China (16-9), the Tricolores came very close to a big performance, this Friday, against Greece during the World Championships in Doha .
Still tied in the last minute of the match, the Greeks, silver medalists at the last Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021, made the difference on a penalty (13-12).
On the last action, Emile Bjorch touches the bar of the opposing goalkeeper.
Even if the result is not what was expected, the manner gives some hope for the rest of the competition.
In goal, goalkeeper Hugo Fontani made numerous saves including two saved penalties.
Romain Marion-Vernoux finished top scorer on the French side with 4 goals.
“After a failed first quarter, our collective performance was good,” notes coach Floran Bruzzo.
We developed our game and we played well.
That’s how we win matches.
Now we lack experience in important moments.
»
Amazing game in Doha 🤩 Greece get an extra day off while France will meet with Australia in the crossover game #waterpolo #vizilabda #pallanuoto #wasserball #vaterpolo #doha2024 https://t.co/fqYXrjnCFo pic.twitter.com/98Un1uWfaN
— Total Waterpolo (@total_waterpolo) February 9, 2024
France therefore finished 2nd in group B behind Greece and ahead of Brazil and China.
Florian Bruzzo's men will play against Australia this Sunday (2 p.m.) in the play-offs, a sort of round of 16.
If they qualify, they will face Hungary, the reigning world champion, in the quarter-final.
Quite a challenge.