In a true volleyball thriller, Poland defeated Canada 3:2 (30:32, 14:25, 25:17, 25:23, 15:13) in a match from the second week of the Nations League in Chicago. Despite being down 0:2, Nikola Grbić's protégés showed character, turned the match around, and achieved their second victory in the tournament.
The beginning – Canadian dominance
The match started better for the "Maple Leafs," who used powerful serves and strong attacks through Ketrzynski and Hofer. The Poles tried to respond with successful plays from Gomulka and Semeniuk, but a series of errors at the end led to a dramatic 30:32 for Canada, decided by an ace from Fynnian McCarthy.
In the second set, Canada literally crushed their opponent. The combination of McCarthy's serving pressure and Ketrzynski's excellent attack paid off. Poland failed to organize its defense, and errors multiplied – 14:25.
The comeback begins
The third game brought an awakening for the Poles. Semeniuk scored two aces, and middle blockers Poręba and Adamczyk stabilized the block. The Canadians lost their rhythm, and the Poles built a comfortable lead – 25:17.
In the fourth game, Poland again started strong. Adamczyk's serve and Szalpuk's attacks made the difference. Despite Canada's attempts to get back into the game, Poland showed more stability in critical moments – 25:23.
Tie-break – a hero named Poręba
The decisive set started with a lead for Canada, but Poręba responded with a block and an attack. Semeniuk and Szalpuk put the team ahead at 13:11, but Hofer equalized. In the end, Mateusz Poręba shone again – a block and an attack brought victory to the "Drużyna" – 15:13! 🔥
Canada | Poland | |
---|---|---|
Ketrzynski – 20 pts. | Semeniuk – 20 pts. | |
Hofer – 18 pts. | Szalpuk – 18 pts. | |
McCarthy – 14 pts. | Poręba – 11 pts. (2 pts. in the tie-break) | |
Schnitzer – 9 pts. | Adamczyk – 11 pts. | |
Elgert – 4 pts. | Sasak - 8 pts. | |
Heslinga - 5 pts. | Gomułka - 6 pts. | |
Varga - 6 pts. (reserve) | Komenda - 1 pt. |