Poland started the match against Vietnam as a clear favorite, but after the first set, everyone was completely perplexed. The opponent, considered an outsider on the world stage, snatched the set 25:23, after taking advantage of the hesitations of the Polish receivers and poor stability in attack. A key moment was the block against Magdalena Stysiak at 23:23 and the subsequent mistakes by the Poles, who caused an upset.
The Favorite's Reaction
Annoyed by the setback, Stefano Lavarini's girls regained control in the second set. Poland dominated with a strong block, effective attacks by Stysiak and Lukasik, and a deadly serve that disrupted the Vietnamese reception. The difference quickly swelled to double digits and the 25:10 score clearly showed the real class.
Reliable Leader Stysiak
The third set was decided at the start when the Poles took a 4:0 lead. Stysiak and Lukasik carried the main burden in attack, while the centers Korneluk and Jurczyk closed the net with blocks. Poland reached a convincing 25:12, as the difference in classes became obvious.
Vietnam Fought, but the End Was Polish
In the fourth part, Vietnam tried to bring back the intrigue – they led 6:1 and forced Lavarini to call a timeout. After that, Poland stabilized their game, again thanks to Korneluk and Stysiak's effective attack. Although the Vietnamese got close to 23:21, Stysiak took responsibility and finished the match with a powerful hit – 25:22 and a final 3:1 for the "white-reds."
Match Statistics
| Match | Result | Sets |
|---|---|---|
| Poland – Vietnam | 3:1 | 23-25, 25-10, 25-12, 25-22 |
Poland lost only the first set, but then completely dominated two consecutive ones, before finishing with a slightly more nervous fourth. Vietnam showed they could surprise, but not maintain a stable tempo in a long match.
Top Scorers
| Poland | Points | Vietnam | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magdalena Stysiak | 29 | Vi Thi Nhu Quynh | 20 |
| Agnieszka Korneluk | 16 | Tran Thi Bich Thuy | 9 |
Stysiak was once again the undisputed leader and main finisher in attack, while Korneluk impressed with both blocks and quick attacks through the center. On the Vietnamese side, Nhu Quynh maintained her level with 20 points, but did not receive enough support.
After the match, the Polish media gave Stefano Lavarini the lowest rating - 3/10. "We are used to his way of working, but this time it is surprising that he did not give a chance to more of the reserve players. When there were problems with reception, he trusted Justyna Lysiak too late. Marlena Kowalewska, who returned after a long break, also needed more time on the court," wrote Polish journalists.
Poland experienced a shock in the very first game, which could serve as a warning before tougher opponents. The team's strength lay in blocking and the high efficiency of Stysiak and Lukasik. Vietnam deserves applause for its aggressive start and fighting spirit in the fourth set, but Lavarini's team's class and squad depth ultimately proved decisive.
photos:volleyballworld.com
