Ukraine recorded their sixth win in this year's Nations League, after defeating Iran 3:1 (25:22, 25:21, 29:31, 25:19) at the start of the third week in Belgrade. Thus, Raul Lozano's team solidified its position in the battle for a spot among the participants in the final tournament.
The Ukrainians started strong and controlled the first two sets. Excellent blocking, stable serving, and good play from Plotnytskyi, Kovalov, and Semeniuk secured them a 2:0 lead after 25:22 and 25:21.
The third set was the most contested. After an even game, the Ukrainians caught up from a deficit thanks to aces from Plotnytskyi and Yanchuk, but in a dramatic finish, Iran prevailed 31:29 after two consecutive successful blocks.
In the fourth set, Ukraine finally broke their opponent. At 16:14, Vasyl Tupchii made an impressive series of four consecutive aces, with which the team pulled away to 20:14 and effortlessly closed the match at 25:19.
Kovalov was the top scorer for the winners with 22 points, Plotnytskyi added 16. For Iran, Hadji scored 24 points, and Morteza finished with 16. With the victory, Ukraine not only took an important step towards participating in the final tournament of the Nations League but also climbed one place in the world ranking. Raul Lozano's team now occupies the 12th position, while Iran retained 18th place. With this success, Ukraine continues to be among the main contenders for a place in the final tournament, while Iran complicated its task in the remaining matches.

photo:volleyballworld.com