U20 EC Division I – Day 1 – Victory for the Red Sharks

Belgium kick off U20 European Championship Division I with a convincing victory over Ukraine

The Belgian U20 water polo team have got off to an excellent start at the European Championship in Oeiras. In their opening match against Ukraine, the Belgians were immediately put to the test. The Ukrainian side played a high-pressing game and constantly tried to put Belgium under pressure. However, our lads responded with maturity, remained composed in possession and time and again found the right solutions.

Thanks to well-executed water polo, strong team organisation and clinical finishing, Belgium took control of the match early on. A strong first half saw them build up a comfortable lead, which they then maintained in a controlled manner. The final score of 8–13 perfectly reflected the difference between the two teams.

Period scores
•    1st period: 2–2
•    2nd period: 1–5
•    3rd period: 2–4
•    4th period: 3–2

Defensively, too, Belgium were rock-solid. Goalkeeper Yaroslav Cherednikov had an excellent game and made several key saves at crucial moments. With a number of fine saves, he gave his team the confidence to further extend their lead.

Nevertheless, the performance was not quite flawless. A few minor errors crept into the play here and there, and a number of good chances went begging. However, this also means there is still room for improvement ahead of the upcoming matches.

Belgian goalscorers
With six different goalscorers, Belgium proved that it has plenty of attacking options and is difficult to defend against.
The Belgian goals were shared among several players:
•    Lev Dams: 3 goals
•    Thomas Bust: 3 goals
•    Boris Durez: 2 goals
•    Robin Sergeant: 2 goals
•    Ilyas Viaene: 2 goals
•    Victor Leblois: 1 goal

Tomorrow brings the big match: Belgium v Israel

Tomorrow won’t be just any old match. Tomorrow will be a special match.
Last year’s two finalists in the U18 European Championship Division I. Two sides who know each other inside out. Two teams who know exactly where their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses lie. A fixture that really needs no further explanation.

You can already feel the atmosphere in the stands, where a large group of Belgian supporters are gearing up to cheer the team on to new heights. This is set to be a thrilling battle, a match in which physical strength, tactical ingenuity and mental resilience could make all the difference.

Following their convincing opening victory against Ukraine, Belgium head into this crunch match full of confidence. The first step has been taken. Tomorrow brings the first real test of strength in this European Championship.

Come on Belgium – LETS GO RED SHARKS!