BRIDGEPORT, Pa. — Former Salem International University star Michal Izdinsky did not score as France fell to Italy, 18-9, in Group B competition on the first day (Monday, July 17) of men’s competition at the 2017 FINA World Championship in Budapest, Hungary.
In a game marred by 23 ejections and 13 man-up scores, including a seven-for-13 performance by the Italians, France fell behind early against Italy in trailing 5-2 after a quarter of play. Down 8-6 at halftime, the French saw their hopes of a comeback smashed with a 7-1 outburst by Italy in the third quarter to fall behind 15-7 before being outscored 3-2 in the fourth quarter.
Izdinsky and France will next be in action against Australia (July 19) and Hungary (July 21) to round out Group B competition. Australia and Hungary squared off in another opening day match-up with the Hungarians claiming a 13-3 win.
The top finisher in each group will earn a bye to the Quarterfinal Round, while teams 2-4 from each group will battle on July 23 for the right to advance.
The top-eight remaining teams after day six of competition will advance to the Final Round with a champion slated for crowning on July 29 in Budapest.
