In Quezon City, Philippines, the Ukrainian national team recorded a clean 3:0 (25:17, 25:12, 25:11) victory against Algeria in a Group F match of the Men's World Volleyball Championship. Despite the ease with which Raul Lozano's team dealt with their opponent, the situation for advancing from the group did not become easier – the last match is against the reigning world champion Italy.
"The Azzurri," for their part, will play against Belgium tonight – a key match for the standings. Sam Deroo and the Belgians started with a win over Ukraine and are now looking more confidently towards the eliminations, as they will have a relatively easy group finish against Algeria.
Match Statistics
| Category | Ukraine | Algeria |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 39 | 20 |
| Block | 13 | 7 |
| Service | 9 | 3 |
| Opponent Errors | 13 | 10 |
| Total Points | 74 | 40 |
Ukraine dominated in attack and blocking, and the difference of almost double the points in attack and the number of aces shows clear technical and physical superiority. The Algerian volleyball players never found their rhythm in the match.
Team Skills
| Category | Ukraine | Algeria |
|---|---|---|
| Digs | 36 | 34 |
| Reception | 34 | 65 |
| Setting | 67 | 73 |
Although Algeria recorded more receptions and settings, they did not lead to effective attacks. Ukraine utilized its chances far better, thanks to higher quality in their finishing hits.
Top scorers
| Ukraine | Points | Algeria | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yanchuk (No. 8) | 18 | Dur (No. 12) | 9 |
| Tupchii (No. 13) | 12 | Iken (No. 8) | 5 |
Ukraine's leader, Yanchuk, was decisive with 18 points and played the role of main scorer. The support from Tupchii with 12 points ensured Lozano's peace of mind on the flanks. The Algerian players had no answer, as no one managed to reach double digits in scoring, except for Dur.
photo: volleyballworld.com
