Australia's men's water polo team has fallen just short of one of the greatest upsets in world championships history.
The Sharks almost pulled off a remarkable win over reigning Olympic champions Croatia in Barcelona before losing 7-6 in extra-time to bow out in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.
With the match tied at 5-5, Sharks vice captain Richie Campbell struck the inside of the post with a close-range shot in the dying seconds of normal time.
It would have earned Australia only a second world championships semi-final appearance and a first since 1998, with men's water polo traditionally dominated by the European powers.
The Sharks fought back from a goal down in extra time to level again at 6-6 but Croatia's Petar Muslim clinched the winning goal in the final minute.
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Australia had earlier led 5-3 with four minutes to go in the final term but Croatia responded strongly to keep themselves in the contest.
Australia's Croatian coach Elvis Fatovic, an assistant in Croatia's London triumph, was shattered but proud of his team.
"We had great defence against the Olympic gold medallists, who are one of the best attacking teams in the world," Fatovic said.
"We didn't have much luck in the last quarter and on some occasions experience is very important.
"But we are on the right path to finish the world championships in a good position and all-in-all I'm so proud of the team's performance."
Billy Miller top scored with two goals, with captain Rhys Howden, Aaron Younger, Aidan Roach and Campbell also finding the back of the net.
Australia now compete in playoff games and can finish as high as fifth.
Australia's women's team face Russia in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
