The Olympic match between Spain and Croatia ended in controversy on the second day of the men's water polo tournament after the referee ruled a last gasp Spanish shot had not crossed the line, allowing Croatia the 8-7 victory.
Croatia dominated in the first half but Spain came back strongly, capitalizing on a Croatian drop of pace, and cheering when they thought 41-year-old Ivan Perez's backshot had leveled the game with only seconds to go.
But the Slovene referee, hassled by a vividly gesticulating Spanish coach, refused to change his decision. The group A match ended 8-7 to Croatia.
Spain has appealed the decision to the FINA technical committee, but the chances of winning that appeal are likely slim.
Croatia sits atop Group A with four points from two matches. Spain is two points behind, but they remain a strong contender to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament.
