Spain Reclaims Dominance Over Italy in World Cup Water Polo; Settebello Eyes Hungary Finale

The Spanish national team reminded the world why they hold the crown, securing a 16-12 victory over Italy in the second phase of the 2026 World Cup. While the result marks a rare stumble for the Settebello in Alexandroupoli, Greece, the loss is largely academic. Italy had already secured their ticket to the Final Eight in Sydney, meaning the defeat serves more as a tactical lesson than a competitive setback.

For fans searching for Italia-Spagna oggi in tv, World Cup pallanuoto 2026: orario, programma, streaming, the action has shifted. With the Spain clash concluded, the focus now turns to the final group match today, Sunday, April 12, where Italy faces Hungary.

A Tale of Two Halves in Alexandroupoli

The match began as a nightmare for head coach Sandro Campagna’s squad. Italy suffered a disastrous first half, plagued by a distracted defense that allowed Spain to surge to a 6-2 lead. This early deficit proved insurmountable, despite a spirited attempt by the Italians to claw their way back into the contest.

Italy showed flashes of their elite form in the second and third periods, narrowing the gap to a single goal. However, the Spanish champions—who also took the gold in Singapore 2025—displayed the composure of title holders. They shut the door in the final quarter, winning the period 6-3 to seal the 16-12 result.

The victory was a matter of revenge for the Iberians, who had fallen to Italy 12-10 during the preliminary round of the tournament.

By the Numbers: Where the Game Was Won

While Italy dominated the sprints—winning all four attempts—the game was decided in the trenches and the six-meter zone. Spain’s defensive discipline was the deciding factor, recording six blocks compared to Italy’s two. Italy struggled to convert from distance, managing only one goal from the six-meter line against Spain’s three.

Standout Performers:

• Spain: Granados led the charge with five goals (including two penalties). Biel and Valera added three goals each, while Sanahuja and Valls contributed two apiece.
• Italy: Cassia was the top scorer for the Settebello with three goals. Bruni and Balzarini each netted twice, and Ferrero added two from the penalty line.

Coach Sandro Campagna was candid about the result, noting that the poor start weighed heavily on the match and admitting that the Spanish side deserved the win.

The Road to Sydney: Final Eight Format

Despite the loss, Italy’s trajectory remains positive. The Settebello enters the next phase having already guaranteed a spot in the Final Eight, which is scheduled for July 22-26 in Sydney, Australia. To clarify for the global audience, the qualification process for the finals is multifaceted: the top four teams from the preliminary groups are automatically promoted to Group C to determine the final seeding.

The fifth qualifying spot will emerge from Group D, while two additional passes are currently being contested in the Second Division tournament held in Malta. Australia, as the host nation, has qualified automatically.

How to Watch: Italy vs. Hungary Today

The Settebello concludes its current campaign today, Sunday, April 12, against Hungary. This matchup pits two water polo giants against one another, with Hungary coming off a 13-9 victory over Spain.

Match Details:

• Opponent: Hungary
• Date: Sunday, April 12, 2026
• Time: 14:00 local time
• Streaming: All matches are broadcast via the paid streaming section of the official World Aquatics website.

Italy enters this final bout looking to regain momentum and refine their defensive rotations before the high-stakes environment of the Sydney finals in July.

Next Checkpoint: Italy faces Hungary today at 14:00. Stay tuned for the post-match analysis and the final seeding for the Sydney Final Eight.

Do you think the Settebello can overturn their defensive lapses in time for the finals? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.