The Ukrainian national water polo team has completed its performance at the Men’s Water Polo World Cup 2026, Division 2. Despite the personnel losses, the team demonstrated character, won an important victory over Canada and took a principled position on the match against the Russians.
President of the Ukrainian Water Polo Federation Oleksandr Svishchov summarized the results of the tournament.
About performing at the group stage
“Our guys approached the competition in good shape, but the absence of two leaders affected the team’s chemistry. At the same time, the progress was obvious – from match to match, the team grew stronger, and we are actively involving young people.”
According to him, the match with France showed the team’s potential:
“We played ball to ball for two periods, but the opponent’s class showed.”
Ukraine confidently defeated Hong Kong, and in the game with Argentina, according to Svishchov, “we only lacked sports luck.”
On the playoffs and the victory over Canada
“The victory over Canada (17:13) is a real success. This is a team with experience in the Olympic Games and World Championships. Our players demonstrated character and discipline.”
At the same time, the matches against Australia and Georgia were an important experience:
“We understand the level of our opponents. Despite this, the Ukrainians fought to the last.”
About the work of the coaching staff
Svishchov praised the contribution of Croatian specialist Nikica Gulin:
“His experience gave us an understanding of modern tactics. He also did a strong psychological job – success is 90% dependent on mentality.”
He also noted the work of Oleksiy Shvedov:
“This is the result of joint systematic work. We are moving in the right direction.”
On refusing to play a match with the Russians
Oleksandr Svishchov emphasized:
“We cannot shake hands with those whose country is trying to destroy our country every day. The only loss we fear is a moral defeat.”
“It is unacceptable to go to the same platform with the Russians. There is no “neutrality” between the aggressor and the victim.”
President of the Ukrainian Water Polo Federation summarized:
“Today, Ukrainian sport is also a front. We choose loyalty to Ukraine, not to the rules that ignore the war.”
