The tournament offers a mix of expected and unexpected
Two weeks before the end of the preliminary phase of the Women's Volleyball Nations League, viewers are enjoying an intriguing cocktail of confirmed favorites, shocking upsets, and painful failures. While Brazil and USA solidified their positions in the race for the finals, Czechia delivered one of the biggest sensations of the tournament.
Apeldoorn becomes the arena for the most incredible scenario
In the Dutch city of Apeldoorn, debutants from Czechia defeated the European champions from Turkey 3:1 (25-22, 25-21, 4-25, 25-20). The match turned into a true volleyball anomaly after the Czechs lost the third set by a humiliating 4-25, but found the strength to regroup and close out the match. Brancuska scored 21 points, and Jehlarova added 13 (including an impressive 6 blocks). "We made too many mistakes and couldn't react," admitted Sinead Jack-Ksal after the match, in her debut for Turkey. Vargas and Karakurt each recorded 15 points, but it wasn't enough to save the honor of the champions, who have already secured their place in the finals.
Brazil subdued Poland in the derby of the day
In the clash at the top, Brazil demonstrated class and power at the net, defeating Poland 3:1 (25-22, 25-21, 21-25, 25-22). With a total of 16 blocks, "Seleção" crushed Polish hopes. Gabi Guimaraes was the leader with 24 points and an impressive 50% attack efficiency, while Julia Kudiess contributed with 6 blocks and a total of 14 points. The Poles, despite their second defeat, are still in the qualification zone for the finals.
USA and France reaffirmed their ambitions
The hosts from Arlington took a decisive step towards the finals after turning around the Dominican Republic 3:1 (23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 25-20). Avery Skinner (18 points) and Tia Jimerson (14 points, 4 blocks) led the USA's attack, and Logan Eggleston sealed the match with her key actions at the end. For the Caribbeans, Gaila Gonzalez (19) and Brayelin Martinez (15) were not enough to maintain the pace.
Meanwhile, in Chiba, France defeated Bulgaria 3:1 (25-22, 21-25, 25-17, 25-22). Ndiaye's serves (5 aces) and Elouga's blocks (7) proved decisive. The French now have 4 wins and maintain, albeit small, hopes for the finals. For Bulgaria, the most prolific scorers were Milanova with 16 points and Stoyanova with 15.
Serbia breathes easier after success against Belgium
Serbia cleanly defeated Belgium 3:0 (26-24, 25-19, 25-16) and recorded their second success in the tournament, increasing their chances of avoiding the danger zone. Tijana Boskovic was unstoppable – 26 points with an impressive 61% attack efficiency. Young Ivanovic (12) and Uzelac (11) also contributed to the success. Belgium only showed resistance in the first set, where young Lise Van Hecke scored 11 points.
What's next?
The tension in the Nations League is rising, with only two weeks left until the end of the preliminary phase. While some teams are already looking towards the finals, others will still be fighting for survival and a chance on the big stage.
