Group A down to close finish - World League day 5

With just two more rounds to be played the situation in the women's World Leagu Europe preliminary round group A is getting closer and closer. On Tuesday on the penultimate day of action in the group stage, a first step towards the group victory could be taken by either Italy or Hungary if they manage to win their big head-to-head match-up in Imperia. The Italian women hold a 2-goal advantage out of the first meeting, on day 2, in Hungary where the visitors walked away with 9-11 triumph. Things will be different Tuesday though as Hungary appears to be fighting for their last chance to keep hope of the grou's top spot. In group B meanwhile the Netherlands just need a point out of their final 2 matches to officialy clinch a berth in the Super Final and will face Spain in the first of final 2 matches. The reigning European and world champion Spaniards will be seeking revenge for their 10-6 loss to the Dutch in round 2 when both sides face off in Madrid. However the Arno Havenga coached side knows it will have another shot at Super Final qualification when facing pointless Germany on the final day. In other games Russia holds a heavy favourite role to add 3 more points in the tight race in group A when they host France while Greece takes on Germany, knowing they cannot finish first in group B anymore after a 13-5 loss in the Netherlands four weeks ago.

FINA Women's World League 2014-2015
Europe preliminary round 5

Tuesday, 24 March 2015

18.30: Russia vs. France - in Astrakhan City, Russia
19.00: Spain vs. the Netherlands - in Madrid, Spain
Livestream available, click here.

19.00: Greece vs. Germany - in Athens, Greece
20.00: Italy vs. Hungary - in Imperia, Italy

N.b.: times mentioned are local time.

The standings are now as follows:

Group A

1. Italy 4 - 9 pts
2. Russia 4 - 8
3. Hungary 4 - 7
4. France 4 - 0

Group B

1. The Netherlands 4 - 12 pts
2. Spain 4 - 6
3. Greece 4 - 6
4. Germany 4 - 0

Auckland (NZL) will stage the women's Intercontinental Tournament for Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania from April 28 to May 3, 2015 with the following teams:
GROUP A – China, Brazil, USA, Kazakhstan
GROUP B – New Zealand, Japan, Australia, Canada.

Super Final
9-14 June, 2015 in China (city to be decided)