“We are ready to win more medals for Spain” – Eduardo Lorrio on Mental Growth, Penalties & Spain’s Golden Generation

In this episode of the Waterpolo Expert Talk, Spanish national team goalkeeper Eduardo Lorrio speaks in depth about Spain’s current generation, the learning process in the Champions League, and why he is convinced that the team is ready to win more international medals in the coming years.

Eduardo begins by reflecting on his experiences in the Champions League with his club. Playing against elite teams such as Novi Beograd, he explains the reality for a young team entering Europe’s highest competition. While results may not always reflect performance, the most important aspect is competitiveness. Spain’s young core has shown that it can stay close against top opponents, learning how to manage pressure, physicality and tactical discipline at the highest level.

A key theme of the episode is mental development. Eduardo describes how many Champions League matches are decided in the final minutes. Early in the season, his team lost several close games, but instead of frustration, these moments became learning opportunities. The ability to stay calm, manage the last possession and accept a draw instead of forcing risky decisions is a crucial step toward becoming a winning team.

One of the most emotional parts of the conversation centers on the World Championship final and the dramatic penalty shootout against Italy. Eduardo shares the story behind his decision to speak up before the penalties. Trusting his intuition, he told head coach David Martín that he felt ready to save penalties. The decision paid off, as he stopped a crucial shot – one of the most memorable moments of his career.

Eduardo explains that penalties are not only about technique, but about feeling the moment. Confidence, timing and emotional control often matter more than preparation alone. For him, being trusted by the coach in that decisive situation was just as meaningful as the save itself.

The conversation then turns to the Spanish national team’s evolution under David Martín. Since his arrival in 2017, the team has undergone a clear mentality shift. After years without medals, Spain returned to the podium with silver medals and eventually reached the top by winning the World Championship. A balanced mix of experienced leaders and young talents has created a highly competitive environment.

Eduardo highlights the depth of the current squad, mentioning players like Álvaro Granados, Unai Aguirre, Álvaro Ortiz and Felipe Perrone, whose experience and professionalism continue to shape the team culture. According to Lorrio, the mentality of the group is stronger than ever – focused, ambitious and united.

Looking ahead, the episode also addresses the Olympic pathway. Eduardo openly states that Spain’s goal is not only to qualify for the Olympic Games, but to win an Olympic medal. After finishing fourth in Tokyo, losing both the semifinal and bronze medal match, the motivation is clear. Spain has everything it needs – infrastructure, coaching staff, league quality and player depth – to succeed on the biggest stage.

The episode concludes with reflections on the goalkeeper relationship within the national team. Eduardo emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and support between goalkeepers. They are not rivals, but teammates working toward the same goal. Sharing rooms, tournaments and emotional moments over many years has created deep bonds that strengthen the team as a whole.

This episode offers an honest, emotional and highly insightful look into elite goalkeeping, championship pressure and why Spanish water polo believes its best years may still lie ahead.