The 2021 FIP European Championship concluded at Santa Maria Polo Club with the much-anticipated final between Austria and Italy. Securing their second title after winning in 2018, Italy defeated Austria 6-5 in overtime to capture the prestigious championship
A competitive final resulted in both teams working hard to generate scoring opportunities and providing little space for open runs to goal. Despite scoring just two field goals, Italy continued to pressure Austria, receiving 14 fouls to generate offense from the penalty line. Francisco Macloughlin converted four of his five penalty attempts for the foundation of Italy’s attack, yet Austria continued to fight into the final chukka. Facing a two-goal deficit entering the final chukka, Austria pulled even after consecutive goals from Martin Bleier. With time ticking down, Italy attacked goal and were fouled just steps in front of goal, leading to a penalty conversion to claim the victory. Taken in the overtime chukka, Macloughlin sent the ball through the posts as Italy celebrated the 2021 FIP European Championship victory.
