The Canadian women's water polo team advances to the quarterfinals of the Tokyo Olympic Games.
The Canadians, who are making their first Olympic appearance since the 2004 Athens Games, hold a one win, two loss record heading into their final preliminary round match against the Netherlands on August 1. After losing their opening game to Australia, the Canadians also lost to the current European champions, Spain. Although the Pan American Games vice-champions played well in their first two games, it wasn't until their third game of the Olympic tournament that they were finally able to win, 21-1, against South Africa. Head coach David Paradelo has been satisfied with the team's performance so far:
"We are progressing. It's a long tournament. We are taking it one game at a time. We were not satisfied with our first game. However, we played better offensively against the Spanish team but with some momentary weaknesses defensively. Our performance today shows me that we are coming into our own and will be better against the Netherlands."
Overall, the Canadian play, while solid defensively, has not looked as incisive offensively so far compared to their performance in their last FINA Super Final preparation tournament in Greece in June. Canada's quarterfinals opponent is not yet known but there is one more game in the preliminary round to adjust this aspect of the team's play to ensure they are optimal for the final stages of the Olympic tournament.
Team Canada will face the Netherlands in their next game on August 1st at 2:30am ET.
