Day 13 Schedule

Classification Matches

• Classification 7-8
  Match 45: 16:00. Japan v Italy

• Classification 3-4
  Match 47: 17:35. United States of America v Spain

• Classification 5-6
  Match 46: 20:00. Australia v Netherlands

• Classification 1-2
  Match 48: 21:35. Greece v Hungary

Overview of the Day’s Matches

The day began with intense semifinal battles. The reigning World Cup champion, Greece, exhibited sheer dominance, overcoming the world champion United States of America with a score of 14-9. The closing quarter was crucial, as Greece surged ahead with an impressive 5-2 scoreline in that final stretch. In another semifinal, Hungary completely outmaneuvered the Olympic champions, Spain, winning decisively at 15-9.

In the classification matches for places 5 to 9, Australia battled through a high-scoring affair, edging out Japan 21-17, while Netherlands managed to stave off a spirited Italian side, winning 16-13.

Furthermore, in the classifications for the bottom spots, China sought revenge against New Zealand for their previous year’s playoff loss, winning 10-6. Great Britain also had a satisfying win against France, ensuring they took the 11th position, having defeated the same team earlier in the tournament.

Match Reports

Classification 1-4 Semifinals

Match 44: Hungary 15 – 9 Spain (6-2, 5-2, 3-2, 1-3)

Hungary shocked the Olympic champion Spanish team from the outset, dominating the first half with impressive performance and teamwork. Despite Spain opening the score, it quickly faded, trailing significantly by 6-1 at one point. One of the most stunning moments came when Dorottya Szilagyi launched a spectacular long-range shot that left the Spanish goalkeeper grasping at air.

The trend continued into the second quarter, where Hungary showcased their prowess, constantly capitalizing on openings while Spain struggled to find their rhythm. Even as Spain attempted a comeback, aided by Paula Crespi, Hungary’s relentless offense kept them at a distance.

The third quarter proved decisive as Hungary extended their lead. Despite a flicker of hope for Spain through Bea Ortiz, the gap was too wide to bridge. As the match drew to a close, Hungary began to assert total control, ultimately sealing their path to the finals.

Match Heroes:
Szilagyi and Rita Keszthelyi led the scoring for Hungary with three goals each, while goalkeeper Boglarka Neszmely made 14 saves, ultimately earning her the title of Player of the Match.

Match 43: Greece 14 – 10 United States of America (2-2, 4-3, 3-3, 5-2)

This semifinal saw Greece face the USA, a team in transition as they looked ahead to their 2028 campaign. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging goals in the first three quarters. Young talents from the USA held their own, but Greece’s experience shone through in crucial moments.

After a lively start, followed by a penalty reversal, Greece capitalized on their opportunities. Led by Vasiliki Plevritou, who scored four goals, Greece proved to be the more cohesive and resolute team. The turning point came in the second quarter when Greece seized the lead and never looked back, securing their place in the finals.

Match Heroes:
Plevritou’s stellar performance and goalkeeper Ioanna Stamatopoulou’s crucial saves contributed significantly to Greece’s victory.

Classification 5-8 Semifinals

Match 42: Italy 13 – 16 Netherlands (2-6, 4-2, 3-5, 4-3)

Netherlands entered the match on the back of a fierce fight against potential exclusion from the tournament. They started strong, establishing a substantial lead after the first quarter. Italy rallied several times, showing resilience, but struggled to find their footing consistently.

The defining moment came when Netherlands faced a significant challenge, losing a player to a violence foul. Remarkably, they held their ground during the exclusion period, maintaining their composure and control over the match. Despite Italy’s spirited fightback, the Dutch emerged victorious, solidifying their more favorable standing from previous tournaments.

Match Heroes:
Lieke Rogge and Keuning each scored three for the Netherlands, while Italian player Agnese Cocchiere shone, scoring three amidst the intense clash.

Match 41: Australia 21 – 17 Japan (7-6, 6-4, 2-3, 6-4)

In a crucial match for fifth place, Australia faced Japan, whose agility posed ongoing challenges. Australia managed to maintain a slight lead throughout, utilizing their strength and experience effectively. However, they struggled to capitalize on goals at times, with many shots going wide.

Australia seemed to find their rhythm in the latter parts of the game, leveraging effective counter-attacks and benefiting from several miscommunications on Japan’s side. In the final moments, despite a strong effort from Japan, Australia closed out the match successfully, preserving their higher ranking from the previous tournaments.

Match Heroes:
Tilly Kearns and Danijela Jackovich led the scoring for Australia with five goals each, contributing to their vital win.

Classification 9-10

Match 40: China 10 – 6 New Zealand (4-2, 2-1, 0-1, 4-2)

China displayed a forceful approach from the get-go, establishing an early lead that they maintained throughout the match. Despite New Zealand attempting to fight back, particularly through Morgan McDowall, they ultimately struggled against China’s solid defense.

Crucial moments in the match saw China shutting down potential scoring chances from New Zealand effectively. They demonstrated both finesse and strength, showcasing their growth as a new team on the world stage.

Match Heroes:
Zhang Yumian and Yan Siya each bagged multiple goals for China, while McDowall stood out for New Zealand with five goals but could not lift her team to victory.

Classification 11-12

Match 39: France 9 – 14 Great Britain (1-2, 3-4, 2-4, 3-4)

In a tightly contested matchup between two familiar teams, Great Britain managed to edge out France once again. Despite some contentious moments early on, including two red cards for France, Great Britain maintained control throughout the match.

Kathy Rogers and Lily Turner spearheaded their scoring efforts effectively, closing the match with confidence and claiming 11th place overall in the tournament.

Match Heroes:
Great Britain’s goalkeeper Sophie Jackson was instrumental, making numerous saves and allowing her team to secure the win decisively.

Day 13 exhibited high stakes and stellar performances, setting the tone for an exhilarating finish to the tournament with the gold medal match looming on the horizon.