Germany U16 women's water polo faces heavy defeat and narrow win at Zagreb World Championship

Germany's under‑16 women's water polo team opened the World Championship in Zagreb, Croatia with a 4‑17 loss to the favoured Netherlands side, falling behind 0‑3 within two minutes and struggling to generate quality chances. Coached by Márton Benczur, the German squad managed to turn things around in their second group match, edging out Zimbabwe 8‑6 after a brief 6‑6 deadlock, though the victory was hard‑won and points were left on the table. The team will meet the twice‑defending champions Australia in their third group fixture.

Scoring for Germany in the opening loss was shared by Emmi Küßner, Alicia Indlekofer, Ella Pauels and 14‑year‑old Julika Mühlmann. In the win over Zimbabwe, the lineup featured Elisabta Roman, Lina Bruns, Elizan Kaya, Helene Wagner, Mila Marie Stüven, Lina Lucas, Alicia Indlekofer, Emmi Küßner, Julika Mühlmann, Ella Pauels, Fanny Pohlers, Rika Liebtanz, Zoe Günther and Lilli Malia Radloff.