Poland's young volleyball players recorded an epic victory in their first match of the U19 World Championship. After a five-set battle with many twists, strong emotions, and steel-like mental toughness, the "white-reds" defeated Italy 3:2 (20:25, 25:22, 25:22, 14:25, 20:18) and started the tournament with two points.
First set - Italian domination
The Polish volleyball players had a shaky start. Italy quickly built a 4-point lead, which they extended to 16:9. Despite attempts to turn the tide, the Poles could not close the gap and lost 20:25.
Second set - point-for-point battle and first Polish success
After a difficult start, Poland recovered. The second set began as a close contest – neither team managed to pull away. At 22:21 for Poland, two decisive points followed in their favor, and the set concluded at 25:22.
Third set - built lead and stable mental toughness
Poland started more confidently and led 14:9, but the Italians came back into the match, closing the gap to 2 points. Despite the pressure, the Polish players showed maturity and again closed the set at 25:22.
Fourth set - heavy collapse and Italian renaissance
Just when it seemed Poland controlled the match, a collapse followed. Italy led 18:7 and completely dominated the set, winning it convincingly 25:14. The score was tied at 2:2.
Fifth set - the miracle from 2:9 to victory
The tie-break started catastrophically for Poland – Italy led 9:2. But then the miracle happened. Seven consecutive points brought Poland back into the match. The score remained tied until 18:18, when the Poles scored two consecutive attacks and triumphed 20:18 in the set, 3:2 in the match.
🇮🇹 Италия | Points | Points | 🇵🇱 Полша | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zlatanov (#13) | 25 | versus | 15 | Trawka (#16) |
Gianni (#14) | 14 | versus | 11 | Olejniczak (#8) |
Conclusion
With this victory, Poland started the U-19 World Championship in the most dramatic and inspiring way. Against a strong opponent like Italy, the team demonstrated character, will, and an indomitable spirit. Their triumph brought them the first two points in the group and showed that the "white-reds" will be a serious factor in the tournament.