On the second day of the prestigious 'Hubert Wagner Memorial' tournament in Krakow, the Polish men's national team suffered a heavy 0:3 loss to Brazil. The 'Canarinhos' showed a completely different face compared to their opening match against Argentina and this time left no chances for the hosts.

Polish coach Nikola Grbić made significant squad rotations compared to the match against Serbia, which was won 3:0, but the experiments did not yield results. Brazil, in turn, led by the experienced Bernardo Rezende, came out with completely different energy and controlled the game in all components.

Match Development

First Set
Poland started with a lead after a counter-attack by Artur Szalpuk (4:2), but Darlan quickly restored equality at 10:10. Brazil pressed with strong serves and stable attacks, and in the end, Darlan closed the set again – 25:23.

Second Set
The start was again promising for the hosts (3:0), but after a series by Lucas Bergmann and Matheus, equality was a fact. Poland's reception problems affected their attack, while Darlan and Brazil's middle blockers dictated the tempo – 25:20.

Third Set
The two teams went point for point, but with Darlan's serves, the guests pulled ahead 14:9. The Poles attempted a final charge – Semeniuk blocked Darlan, and Szalpuk reduced the difference to 21:22. Ultimately, Darlan brought match point at 24:22, and a subsequent out by the Poles shaped the final 25:23.

Tactical Change by Bernardinho

The coach of the 'Canarinhos', Bernardo Rezende, opted for a refreshed starting six. The young Artur Bento and Lucas Bergmann started in reception, while Pinta partnered with Judson in the middle. The bold decisions proved to be winning ones – the new starters brought freshness and stability, and the attack functioned far better compared to the defeat against Argentina.

The performance in the second set was particularly impressive, with Brazil finishing its attacks with 63% efficiency – a value that clearly highlights the difference compared to the first match. The reception was also excellent and did not allow Poland to develop its strong serve.

Grbić's Changes Did Not Yield Results

Poland's coach Nikola Grbić also made a full rotation. Kochanowski and Semeniuk started as regulars on the court, and during the match, stars like Fornal, Leon, and Kurek also received playing time. Nevertheless, consistency was lacking, and the difference in attack and reception efficiency tilted the scales in favor of the guests.

For Poland, the loss is a worrying signal before the final phase of preparation for the World Championship. Nikola Grbić's squad changes brought more questions than answers. Artur Szalpuk was the most active in attack, but the team struggled with reception and game organization.

Brazil, on the other hand, demonstrated well-balanced volleyball, with a leading role played by Darlan, who was the undisputed hero of the match.

On the last day of the tournament, the hosts will face Argentina, while the 'Seleção' will play against Serbia.

Image: fundacjawagnera