Elena Ruiz’s incredible goal from thirteen meters secured victory for Spain and the bronze medal in a thrilling match against Greece at the women’s water polo World Cup tournament. This goal perfectly summarized the roller coaster of emotions and intense gameplay that unfolded throughout the tournament.

With the score tied at 9-9 and only eight seconds remaining, Judith Forca failed to secure the win for Spain. Greece called a time-out and decided to play without a goalkeeper, but made a crucial mistake by positioning themselves behind the two-meter line.

Spain seized the opportunity with five seconds left on the clock. With no goalkeeper to stop them, Paula Camus attempted a shot that was claimed as a penalty. However, it was Elena Ruiz who ultimately recovered the ball and launched it from twelve or thirteen meters, sending it flying into the goal and securing the final score of 10-9.

This hard-fought bronze medal is a historic achievement for Miki Oca’s team, marking their thirteenth overall medal across various competitions. It showcases the tremendous potential of Spanish women’s water polo.

The match had a thrilling start, with Spain appearing somewhat stunned after their defeat against the United States. However, they quickly found their momentum, with Judith Forca and Bea Ortiz scoring in the first quarter. Greece managed to score through Plevritou, but Spain maintained a slight lead.

In the second quarter, Spain continued to improve, with Forca and Maica García adding more goals to their tally. However, Greece fought back, equalizing the score at 4-4 with goals from Xenaki and Plevritou. Spain managed to maintain their lead, with a score of 6-5 at halftime.

The third quarter began with a goal from Paula Camus, expanding Spain’s lead to 7-5. Despite some impressive defensive saves from Martina Terré, Spain struggled to find their rhythm in attack and their efficiency in superiorities decreased. The stage was set for a close finish in the final quarter.

At the start of the fourth quarter, Maica García drew a penalty and Judith Forca converted, completing her hat trick and increasing Spain’s lead to 8-6. Paula Leitón then scored a brilliant backhand goal, bringing the score to 9-6 and providing some much-needed breathing room for Oca’s team.

However, Greece quickly staged a comeback, scoring three goals in just under two minutes to tie the game at 9-9 with 2:50 remaining. The final minutes were a roller coaster of emotions, with missed opportunities and timeouts that failed to yield results.

In a critical mistake, Greece played with a goalkeeper-player who positioned herself behind the two-meter line, resulting in an offside call. With no goalkeeper to defend, Spain seized the opportunity. Camus attempted a shot amidst the chaos, but it was Elena Ruiz who emerged as the hero, chasing the ball and scoring into an empty goal, securing the unforgettable victory for Spain.