Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Water Polo Championship match.
Hungary, one of the leading contenders at the World Aquatics Championships alongside Spain and Serbia, are set to face Australia, a team that has not placed higher than 10th in the tournament over the past three years.
Hungary
Hungary currently hold third place in the world rankings. Since the start of the year, they have played eight matches, losing only twice — both times to elite sides: Spain (ranked second) and Greece (ranked fourth). The squad have shown consistent strength in major tournaments, claiming the 2023 World Championship title and finishing fourth at the 2024 Olympic Games. In head-to-head meetings with Australia, Hungary have the upper hand with nine wins, five draws and just two defeats.
Australia
Australia are ranked 11th in the world. Their campaign at the 2024 Olympics was disappointing, ending with six defeats and only three victories. Scoring has been a recurring challenge — they have managed to net 11 or more goals just once in their last 10 outings. Against Hungary, the 11.5-goal threshold has been exceeded only twice in 16 matches.
Hungary vs Australia Prediction
Hungary were unexpectedly beaten by Australia in their most recent Olympic clash, but they are widely expected to produce a strong response this time. The team are unlikely to concede heavily, and Australia are not projected to score more than 11 goals
