Finland delivered one of the latest surprises in the group stage of the Men's Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines. The "Suomis" defeated Olympic champion France with a score of 3:2 (25:19, 17:25, 29:27, 21:25, 15:9) in a Group C match played in Quezon City. Thus, both teams now have 1 win each, but the French have one more point, earned today. The fight for second place, which gives the right to participate in the eliminations, promises to be extremely complicated, assuming Argentina is secure with two wins and 5 points. For Andrea Giani's team, the situation is becoming more complex, as in their last match, France faces De Cecco and co., while the Scandinavians have a more favorable opponent – South Korea.

The Finns showed character, having lost the second and fourth sets, but dominated in the tie-break and deservedly reached victory.
Among other things, the Finns moved up two places in the ranking and are now 18th.
Trevor Clevenot did not participate in the match, who, according to Polish journalist Jakub Balcerzak, has knee inflammation and his participation in the match against Argentina is questionable.

Match Statistics

Team Stats

Although France made more successful attacks, it was the Finns' block (14 vs 10) and fewer errors that proved crucial for the final result.

Defense and Reception Play

In defense, Finland outperformed its opponent (76 against 68 digs), which was critical especially in key moments of the third and fifth sets. In reception, France had the upper hand, but this was not enough for the final success.

Top scorers

Finland showed that with disciplined block play and stable defense, they can surprise even the Olympic champion. Now the Scandinavians hold their fate in their own hands, while France will have to fight to the end against Argentina to avoid a sensational elimination already in the group stage.

photo:volleyballworld.com