At the Olympic tournament in Phuket (Thailand), Italy recorded their 32nd consecutive victory and definitively topped their group. In the last match of the preliminary phase, the "Squadra Azzurra" defeated Belgium 3:1 (25:16, 25:16, 21:25, 25:18).

The match also made history for Bulgarian volleyball - our best international refereeIvaylo Ivanovwas the second referee for the match between the Olympic champions and the Belgians.

Belgium managed to snatch one set from the favorites, but that's as far as their strength went. Italy dominated in most elements - excelling in attack (55:47) and especially in block (15:2).

Match statistics:

• Attacks: Italy 55 R- 47 Belgium

• Block: 15 R- 2

• Aces: 3 R- 5

• Digs: 92 R- 71

• Reception: 63 R- 89

• Setting: 130 R- 144

• Points from opponent's errors: 22 R- 21

Top scorers:

• Italy: Paola Egonu R- 28 points, Mireya Cirichella R- 14

• Belgium: Britt Herbots R- 15, Laura Marten R- 16
  
  

  
  

  
  
  The next match for the "Squadra Azzurra" is against Poland or Germany for a place in the Round of 16.
  
  photos: .volleyballworld.com