Stanford junior Maggie Steffens scored three goals and the United States women’s senior national water polo team beat Hungary, 15-10, Thursday to advance into the quarterfinals of the FINA World Cup in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia.
The Americans (3-0 in World Cup play, 19-2-1 overall) meet Singapore in Friday’s quarterfinal with Spain a likely opponent in the semifinals. Singapore, winless in three matches, dropped a 22-1 decision to China, coached by Rick Azevedo, the father of Stanford grad and Olympian Tony Azevedo.
Spain is scheduled to play winless South Africa in the quarterfinal round. China plays Hungary and host Russia meets Australia in other Friday matches.
Cardinal grad Melissa Seidemann gave the U.S. a 3-2 lead in the first period, sparking a five-goal rally that put the Americans in control.
Team USA has, in the past two days, recorded victories over the only two teams that beat the U.S. this season.
Stanford senior Kiley Neushul added two goals while USC grad Kami Craig matched Steffens for team-high honors with three goals.
“It was a physical game but our team maintained their composure,” USA coach Adam Krikorian said. “Our success on extra player opportunities was a key component toward the win.”
The Americans converted seven of their 11 power-play situations while limiting Hungary to three of six.
By Palo Alto Online Sports/USA Water Polo
By Palo Alto Online Sports/USA Water Polo
By Palo Alto Online Sports/USA Water Polo