The Polish men's volleyball team solidified its excellent form and recorded a convincing 3-0 (25:21, 25:20, 25:23) victory against Serbia in the fourth round of the Nations League. Despite the potential loss of world ranking points in case of failure, Nikola Grbic's boys decisively dealt with their opponent and prevented any surprises.
A striking start for the 'white-and-reds'
Poland started the match confidently, taking advantage of Serbian errors and demonstrating stable play in counter-attacks. With an ace from Kevin Sasak, the score became 5:1, and soon after, the lead increased by two more points. Although the Serbs tried to get back into the game, led by Marko Ivovic's strong play, the Poles re-imposed their rhythm after a short break and instructions from the coach. Despite a series of service errors at the end, the world vice-champions controlled the situation and won the opening set 25:21.
Serbs with more concentration, but Poland remains steadfast
In the second set, Serbia came out with better concentration and showed better play at the net. Artur Szalpuk scored an important point for 5:4, and after an ace by Jakub Nowak, the Poles pulled away at 11:8. Kevin Sasak was again outstanding in attack, and even Ivovic's powerful block could not stop him permanently. Despite Veljko Masulovic's attempts to turn the tide, the Serbs made too many service errors. The set ended with an attack by Sasak on the left wing 25:20.
The most contested set decided by the class of the Poles
The third set began with an effective single block by Nowak. The Serbs relied on the fresh inclusion of Dusan Nikolic and briefly led 6:5. The score remained even, but Jan Firlej, with a brilliant rally, turned the tide in Poland's favor. Masulovic brought back the intrigue with two aces for 11:13, but Mateusz Poreba and the others in red-and-white jerseys quelled the opponent's momentum. The decisive point came after an attack by Sasak for 19:17, and the Poles coolly held their lead until the end 25:23.
(25:21, 25:20, 25:23)
With brilliant play from Kevin Sasak and stable performances from Szalpuk, Nowak, and the rest, Poland showed that they are among the favorites in this year's edition of the Nations League.
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Poland:
Kevin Sasak:14 points
Poreba:12 points
➡️ Sasak was the leader of the Polish team, demonstrating great efficiency in attack and finishing important rallies. Poreba contributed strongly, both in attack and on the block.
Serbia:
Masulovic:10 points
Marko Ivović:9 points
➡️ Mashulović and Ivović distinguished themselves but did not receive enough support from their teammates to turn the match in favor of Serbia.
photo:volleyballworld.com
