The Italian national team successfully concluded its participation in the first week of the Volleyball Nations League in Ottawa (Canada). In their last match, the "Azzurri" defeated USA 3:2 (25:18, 15:25, 25:19, 18:25, 15:10) and recorded their third victory in their four matches of the tournament.
The success earned Ferdinando De Giorgi's selection two points and moved Italy up to fourth place in the VNL temporary standings after the end of the first week. Additionally, the European champions solidified their leading position in the world rankings by adding 2.39 points to their tally.
The match offered a serious battle, with both teams exchanging two sets each before Italy imposed its will in the tie-break. The Italians had an advantage in attack (57 against 50 points), while the Americans performed better in blocking (12 against 10 points) and serving (8 against 7 aces).
Italy's play in attack organization and reception was particularly impressive. The "Azzurri" finished with better reception (82 against 80) and more successful distributions (117 against 111). The Americans compensated with more saved balls in defense – 66 against 61.
Luca Porro was the top scorer for the winners with 23 points, while Mattia Bottolo added 14. For USA, Hannes was above all with 25 points, and Anderson contributed 17.
Despite the defeat, the Americans left with one point from the match, thanks to the two sets won, which allowed them to remain third in the tournament's temporary standings after the first week.

Italy concludes the opening VNL tournament with three victories and a temporary fourth place in the VNL.

photo:volleyballworld.com