The World League Masters is fast approaching, and in two months’ time Israel — the world’s top-ranked team, Grand Prix champions — will probably face host nation Hungary in Budapest. The remaining two participating teams will be determined over the coming month, with all possibilities still open.

The key question: will Israel, the team that has set new standards for the World League, manage to complete a rare double? Head coach Oved Kraus, who had previously announced his intention to step down, was ultimately persuaded to stay on after significant efforts to retain him — a major boost for the world’s number one side.

World League analyst Maurizio Fabrizio has been closely monitoring the changes affecting the top-ranked team: “The Israeli squad will look different from the one that won the Grand Prix, but don’t bet against the uncompromising coach Kraus. He has shown time and again that he knows how to assemble a cohesive unit capable of overpowering its rivals. Keep an eye on a new name in the Israeli lineup — striker Rom Anav, who could emerge as the next star of the World League.”

Fabrizio also points to several uncertainties “There is a major question mark surrounding the future of Shachak Ben-Shabat, the Grand Prix MVP. Parts of the defensive line have also been replaced, and even the first-choice goalkeeper has changed — a significant development for a team that had been playing together for over two years.”

Hungary, meanwhile, is undergoing a transformation of its own. A new head coach and a refreshed squad are expected to arrive hungry and fully focused on capturing the World League Masters title and reclaiming second place in the world rankings from Brazil.

According to Fabrizio: “The Hungarian team learned a great deal from the Grand Prix. There was a collapse against Israel — and Brazil collapsed as well. They simply weren’t prepared for a team as intense as the one Israel fielded. The goalkeeper will return between the posts, the Hungarian defense will be reinforced, and the attacking play will be more daring, with Kerenyi and Kiss continuing to shine. I would be very surprised if the Grand Prix scenario repeats itself. This time, a rematch between Hungary and Israel won’t be a one-sided affair — but a fierce battle driven by a clear desire for revenge.”