The Croatian Water Polo Supercup witnessed a thrilling encounter in Zagreb, where Jadran Split emerged victorious and secured their first Supercup title (13-11).
The Supercup, a relatively new addition to Croatia’s water polo competitions, pits the previous season’s national champions against the cup winners in a one-match showdown for the trophy. This year’s face-off featured the same contenders as the previous year, with Jadran defending their national championship title from the 2022/23 season, and Jug AO entering as the reigning cup champions. Fans on the Mladost pool in Zagreb had a unique chance to watch a total of 11 World Champions from Doha.
Jadran’s path to victory was notable for its dramatic shifts and strategic gameplay. Despite Jug’s strong start, leading 4:2 at the end of the first quarter, Jadran quickly overturned the score to 5:4 in a remarkable comeback. The game saw its share of ups and downs, with Jug managing to tie the score twice. However, Jadran’s performance in the third quarter, extending their lead to three goals at one point, showcased their determination and tactical superiority.
Adding to the drama was a rare own goal by Jug’s center Grgurevic, which inadvertently widened Jadran’s lead. It was definitely a pivotal moment in this match.
Jadran’s victory was also shaped by standout performances from key players, despite missing star player Luka Bukić due to injury, and Marino Cagalj’s absence due to illness recovery.On the other hand, Jug played without the captain and their first pick between the posts – Toni Popadic.
In a way, this was payback after Jug won the Croatian Cup agains Jadran back in December, but the biggest goal for both teams is to clinch the title.
Jadran – Jug AO 13:11 (2:4, 5:2, 3;3, 3:2)
Jadran Split: Marinic Kragic 3, Radovic 3, Fatovic 2, Vrlic 2, Kharkov 1, Pejkovic 1, Duzevic 1
Jug: Jokovic 4, Daube 2, Cabanas 2, Grgurevic 1, Buric 1, Lazic 1.
MVP – Josip Vrlic (Jadran Split)
