Croatia won gold in men’s water polo, beating Italy 8–6 Sunday.
The Croatians were heavily favored, having not lost a game throughout the Olympics, and they showed their power after a slow start.
Italy led 2–1 after one period and trailed only 3–2 at the half.
After a quick goal by Italy to start the second half, Croatia turned on the defensive pressure, controlling the 2-meter hole and forcing Italy to shoot from far outside.
At the other end, Croatia’s powerful shooting, particularly on power plays, pierced the Italian defense.
Italy responded with cross-pool passing to create opportunities. It worked once, leaving Italy down three with four minutes to go; then Italy gave up a power play goal which put the game out of reach.
Italy didn’t surrender; with two minutes to go they got another goal, but turned the ball over on their next possession. They got another break, a Serbian penalty in the final minute, but couldn’t score. Croatia ran out the clock; Italy scored a final goal at the buzzer; Serbia didn’t bother to defend.
