OMM 2022 Problem 4

Let $n$ be a positive integer. In an $n\times n$ garden, a fountain is to be built with $1\times 1$ platforms covering the entire garden. Ana places all the platforms at a different height. Afterwards, Beto places water sources in some of the platforms. The water in each platform can flow to other platforms sharing a side only if they have a lower height. Beto wins if he fills all platforms with water. Find the least number of water sources that Beto needs to win no matter how Ana places the platforms.