Powerhouse USA remained unbeaten over the six-day FINA Water Polo World League Intercontinental Tournament in Lewisville, Texas (USA) from February 16-21.
The Americans, together with Australia, Canada and Brazil qualified for the Super Final to be held in Shanghai (CHN) from June 7-12. China is automatically qualified as the host nation of the tournament, leaving Japan the only team not making it to Shanghai.
On the final competition day in the Texan city, Brazil beat Japan 9-8 (2-1, 3-2, 2-2, 2-3), while China defeated Canada 10-6 (1-2, 1-3, 2-1, 2-3). In the match for the gold medal, the USA played Australia and won 6-5 thank to their lead in the two first quarters (3-0, 1-3, 1-1, 1-1).
The final ranking is as follows:
1. USA
2. AUS
3. CHN
4. CAN
5. BRA
6. JPN
Current FINA Best Water Polo Team member Maggie Steffens (USA) was awarded MVP, while Kelsey Wakefield (AUS) was designated Best Goalkeeper.
Top scorers of the tournament were Rowie Webster (AUS) and McKenzie Fischer (USA) for 13 goals each.
Swimming news courtesy of FINA.