The Montenegro national water polo team will face Georgia today at 18:00 in Kotor as part of their preparations for the upcoming European Championship. This match marks the first official test for the team, which began its training camp on December 8, 2023, in Podgorica.
Under the guidance of head coach Dejan Savić, the team is currently training with their strongest lineup, focusing on a series of friendly matches and intense training sessions. Following today’s match, Montenegro is set to compete against Italy in Naples, with plans for a potential visit from Croatia as well.
Savić is evaluating a roster of 22 players as the team looks to finalize its squad for the tournament. The selection process will intensify as the championship approaches, as many players on the expanded list have been performing exceptionally well with their clubs throughout the season. This strong individual performance bodes well for the team’s prospects at the European Championship, set to take place in Belgrade starting January 10, 2024.
Upcoming Matches and Group Dynamics
Montenegro has been placed in Group A, alongside Hungary, France, and Malta. Their first match will kick off against Malta on January 10 at 18:00, followed by a crucial encounter with Hungary on January 12 at 15:15. The final match of the group stage will see Montenegro face France on January 14 at 18:00.
The top three teams from each group will advance to the next phase of the competition, forming Group E alongside three qualifiers from Group C, which includes Spain, Israel, Serbia, and the Netherlands. The two highest-ranked teams from this group will secure spots in the semifinals, heightening the stakes for Montenegro as they aim for a strong showing in the tournament.
With a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, the team is poised to make an impact. As they prepare for their first match against Malta, anticipation builds not only for the players but also for the fans who support the national squad. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for Montenegro as they look to navigate the challenges of the European Championship and strive for success on the international stage.
