Alexandroupoli, Greece - April 7 - The USA Men were upended by Italy today, 15-8, at the 2026 World Aquatics World Cup Division 1 Tournament. Team captain Max Irving scored three goals for the United States as goalkeeper Adrian Weinberg recorded nine saves in net. Team USA will face Spain tomorrow at 12:45pm et/9:45am pt with live streaming on World Aquatics and live statistics on Microplus Timing Services.
Italy acted quickly to begin, winning the opening sprint and scoring on its first possession. Irving had an answer from six meters before the Italians regained the lead on its ensuing trip down the pool. Three minutes later, Irving would strike again, this time on a power play opportunity. The tie was short-lived as Italy responded immediately with its third goal. Hannes Daube came back and converted with a man-advantage for the United States before Italy earned a penalty and scored to hold a 4-3 lead after one.
The second period belonged to the Italians who registered three goals while conceding none to push its lead to 7-3 at halftime.
Both teams came out firing away in the second half and there were nine total goals scored in the third quarter. Ben Liechty, Daube, Irving, and Nicolas Saveljic tallied scores for Team USA opposite five goals from Italy who held a 12-7 edge heading into the final frame.
The Italians felt comfortable and three consecutive goals to begin the fourth put the game away for good. Ryan Ohl scored near the end but it was not enough to overcome the deficit as Italy claimed the 15-8 victory.
Team USA went 5/17 on power plays with no penalties attempted while Italy went 5/11 on power plays and 2/2 on penalties.
Scoring - Stats
USA 8 (3, 0, 4, 1) M. Irving 3, H. Daube 2, N. Saveljic 1, B. Liechty 1, R. Ohl 1
ITA 15 (4, 3, 5, 3) E. Campopiano 3, F. Ferrero 3, G. Cannella 2, F. Cassia 2, J. Alesiani 1, A. Balzarini 1, L. Bruni 1, V. Dolce 1, S. Guerrato 1
Saves - USA - A. Weinberg 9 - ITA - G. Nicosia 8, M. Del Lungo 4
6x5 - USA - 5/17 - ITA - 5/11
Penalties - USA - 0/0 - ITA - 2/2
