The Brazilian men's national volleyball team overcame the first obstacle in the final phase of the 2025 Nations League (VNL). The team, led by the legendary Bernardinho, achieved a 3:1 (29:31, 25:19, 25:16, 25:21) victory over host China in the quarterfinal clash played in Ningbo.
After losing the first set, the Brazilians demonstrated class and character to turn the tide of the match and qualify for the semifinals, where they will meet the winner of the match between Japan and Poland. The match between the two Asian-European giants is scheduled for Thursday at 2:00 PM Bulgarian time.
Score by sets
| Team | 1st set | 2nd set | 3rd set | 4th set | Total score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | 29 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 3 |
| China | 31 | 19 | 16 | 21 | 1 |
China surprisingly took the first set after a long and tense battle, but Brazil stabilized their reception and attack to leave no doubt about their superiority in the next three parts.
Standings and other results
Brazil finished the qualifying phase at the top with 11 wins in 12 matches. China, despite only 3 wins, reached the finals as hosts.
In the other quarterfinal match on Wednesday, Italy, second in the standings after the group stage, gave no chances to Cuba and won with a decisive 3:0. "Squadra Azzurra" will face the winner of the match between France and Slovenia (Thursday, 10:00 AM Bulgarian time).
Statistics of top scorers
| Player | Team | Total points | Attack | Block | Serve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alan | Brazil | 26 | 23 | 2 | 1 |
| Lucas Bergmann | Brazil | 10 | - | ||
| Matheus Pinta | Brazil | 8 | - | ||
| Wen | China | 15 | - | ||
Alan once again demonstrated why he is the leading figure in the 'seleção' attack, and Bergmann and Pinta added the necessary support at key moments. China lacked the necessary depth in offense, with only Wen showing a high level.
Due to back pain, center Judson was not included in the squad.
photo: volleyballworld.com
