On the emblematic volleyball stage in the "Maracanazinho" hall in Rio de Janeiro, the Italian women's national team began its participation in the 2025 Nations League with a categorical victory, defeating the young US team with a 3:0 set score (25:13, 25:13, 30:28). The match highlighted the contrast between the experience and class of the Italians and the uncertainty in the ranks of the Americans.
Dominance from the very beginning
From the first set, Italy demonstrated superiority in all components of the game. The team, led by coach Julio Velasco, imposed a rhythm with aggressive serving, stable blocking, and organized attack, which made it extremely difficult for the young US squad. The first two sets ended with an identically convincing score of 25:13 each, with Italy practically leaving no doubt about its supremacy.
Perfect organization and key figures
Excellent game distribution by setter Francesca Oro allowed the attacking players to show high efficiency. Paola Egonu led with 17 points (44% attack efficiency and 3 blocks), regaining her confidence after a difficult period. Sila added 13 points with an impressive 58% successful attacks, and Fahr scored 10 points, including several crucial ones in the third set, with 62% success rate.
Crisis and turnarounds in the third set
The third set showed that the young US squad has potential, especially when Italy relaxed. The Americans took a 21:14 lead, capitalizing on Italy's reception difficulties and a series of errors. Then substitute Degradi intervened, helping to stabilize the game. With a run of 8 unanswered points, the "Azzurre" turned the score around and won the dramatic set 30:28.
Match statistics
Italy
Attack: 48%
Blocks: 13
Aces: 4
Service errors: 8
Attack errors: 15
Positive reception: 36%
Perfect reception: 26%
USA
Attack: 28%
Blocks: 7
Aces: 0
Service errors: 8
Total errors: 19
Positive reception: 22%
Perfect reception: 15%
Not a single American player reached double-digit points. Lednicky was the top scorer with 8 points, followed by Franklin and McKay with 7. This contrasts with the three Italians with double-digit scores and reflects the overall superiority of the European team.
Starting lineups
USA: Powell - Lednicky, Franklin - M. Skinner, McKay - Igiede; libero: Henz
Italy: Oro - Egonu, Fahr - Danesi, Sylla - Giovannini; libero: De Gennaro
What's next?
After this important victory, Italy will face Germany in their next match. Expectations are for another strong performance, but also for an opportunity to iron out the weaknesses shown in the final part of the third set. The win against the USA not only provides a confident start but also confirms Italy's ambitions to be among the leading forces in the competition.
