Serbia avoided the worst-case scenario – an early exit after the second round. If they had lost today, the match against Brazil would have been only for honor. Now, however,the math is back in playThe best option for the Serbs is a combination: a win over Brazil and a success for China against the Czech Republic. There are other possibilities for qualification, but they will already depend on set difference and cross-results.
The difference from the match against the Czech Republic was obvious from the very first ball. The Serbs entered with more energy, focus, and a desire to impose their style.
The servewas more aggressive, but also with fewer errors.
The receptionworked significantly more stably, which allowed for cleaner attacks.
In defense, the team showed flexibility, and several decisive saves gave confidence to the players.
The truth is that China was not at the level that the Czech Republic demonstrated against the Serbs. But it is precisely such matches that show character – and this time, Creciu's team managed to respond.
The first victory was mandatory.Serbia stays in the gameeven with a difficult path ahead. The last match in the group – against Brazil – will be decisive not only for qualification but also for the confidence of a team that is still searching for itself in Manila.
Score by sets
| Team | 1st set | 2nd set | 3rd set | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serbia | 25 | 25 | 29 | 3 |
| China | 18 | 19 | 27 | 0 |
The Serbians closed the first two sets with a comfortable lead, and in the third, they showed character and stable mentality in an even game where every detail was crucial.
Team statistics
| Statistics | Serbia | China |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 45 | 35 |
| Block | 7 | 8 |
| Aces | 2 | 2 |
| Points from opponent's errors | 25 | 19 |
| Total points | 79 | 64 |
Serbia's biggest advantage came from a more effective attack and more direct points from opponent's errors. China had a minimal superiority only in blocking, but that was not enough to compensate for the difference in attack.
Game elements
| Element | Serbia | China |
|---|---|---|
| Digs | 49 | 48 |
| Reception | 53 | 65 |
| Setting (assists) | 84 | 87 |
China showed better reception and setting, but the Serbs compensated with an equally strong defense and more effective attack execution. This is what made the difference in the key moments.
Top scorers
| Serbia | Points | China | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luburic | 17 | Wang B. | 16 |
| Peric | 11 | Jiang C. | 9 |
Luburic was once again the leader in attack with 17 points, and Peric provided strong support. For China, the main burden was on Wang B., who scored 16 points but lacked sufficient support from his teammates.
photo: volleyballworld.com
