The city of Piraeus is primed for a spectacular showdown as the Women’s Champions League Final Four kicks off on Friday. The event, hosted by Olympiacos SFP, promises high drama with the continent’s finest clubs vying for the European crown in water polo’s premier women’s club competition.
This year’s semi-finals see an enticing rematch between hosts Olympiacos and reigning champions Astralpool CN Sabadell of Spain. The two giants have dominated the competition over the last decade, lifting nine titles between them across the past 11 seasons. In what will be their fifth direct clash in a final-four setting since 2013, the stakes could not be higher. Olympiacos, undefeated in this season’s campaign, are looking to capitalise on home advantage, especially as the club celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Historically, the two clubs have produced captivating encounters. Their rivalry is finely poised, with each side claiming two victories in their four previous final matchups. Sabadell, aiming for an eighth title, are on the brink of equalling Orizzonte Catania’s all-time record. Their most recent triumph over Olympiacos came last season in Spain, but this time, the Greeks will be backed by a home crowd in a city where host teams have excelled, winning six of the last seven editions.
Olympiacos captain Margarita Plevritou and coach Dimitris Kravaritis underlined the emotional and sporting importance of the occasion. Plevritou described her pride in playing in the Final Four during the club’s centenary year, while Kravaritis noted the significance of returning to Piraeus for a chance to reclaim the trophy after falling short last year.
In the other semi-final, CN Sant Andreu of Spain face debutants FTC Telekom Waterpolo from Hungary. Sant Andreu, who impressed in last year’s tournament by capturing the bronze medal on their first attempt, are eager to push further. Their captain Maria Palacio spoke of the pride in reaching the Final Four once again, praising her team’s resilience through the season.
FTC Telekom, meanwhile, have taken the competition by storm. Starting their journey back in September, they navigated the qualifiers with impressive determination. Captain Greta Gurisatti recalled how the season began as a dream and transformed into a genuine challenge for the title. Coach Mark Matajsz affirmed that their goal is not just to participate but to win it all, echoing memories of Ferencvaros’ men’s team lifting the Champions League on debut in 2019.
The only previous meeting between these two sides came during the qualification phase, where FTC edged out Sant Andreu 9-8 in a tight contest. Both teams now return to Athens with renewed strategies and a spot in their first-ever Champions League final on the line.
At Thursday’s press conference, European Aquatics Vice President Kyriakos Giannopoulos praised the decision to return the Final Four to Piraeus, citing the city’s strong organisational record and the stature of Olympiacos as a host. While Sabadell were absent due to a late arrival, the presence of the other teams created a palpable buzz ahead of the weekend’s matches.
The semi-final fixtures promise a blend of experience and ambition. Olympiacos and Sabadell bring a storied rivalry, while Sant Andreu and FTC Telekom represent the rising powers of the women’s game. As anticipation builds, water polo fans across Europe await what could be one of the most memorable Final Fours in recent years.
