PASAY CITY, PHILIPPINESColombia's men's team was on the verge of a historic first World Championship victory, but after a true five-set thriller in Pasay City, Philippines, Portugal showed class and experience and prevailed with3:2 (23-25, 21-25, 25-20, 25-21, 15-11).

Blistering start and 1:0 for Colombia

The Latin Americans started explosively – 5:0, which forced Portugal to call an early timeout. The Europeans primarily relied on their star Miguel Tavares (Warta Zawiercie, Poland), and six more of their squad play abroad – France, Japan, Romania. The Colombians, composed entirely of players from the local league, however, did not back down and with a disciplined game, led by Italian coach Paolo Montagnani, snatched the set 25:23.

Key statistics first set:Colombia had the upper hand in attack (19 vs 12) and serve (3 aces vs 2), while Portugal compensated with solid defense.

Injuries and a second blow from Colombia

At the start of the second set, Colombia lost Santos due to injury at 0:2, and later another starter left at 13:9. Nevertheless, the team showed character and after a series of powerful serves and precise blocks by Ararat and Jimenez, pulled ahead 2:0 after 25:21.

Second set statistics:Portugal made 12 successful attacks against only 6 for Colombia, but the South Americans compensated with 4 blocks (0 for the opponent) and a full 3 aces. The Iberians made 9 errors, which further tipped the scales.

Portugal's reaction

Pushed against the wall, the Iberians mobilized in the third set. Colombia continued to attack more effectively (16 successful attacks vs 12), but Portugal compensated with a devastating block – a full 6 points, while their opponent had none. This proved crucial for the comeback and 25:20.

Third set statistics:The attack/defense balance was clear – Colombia in attack (16:12), Portugal on block (6:0). There were no aces, and errors were similar (6 for the Portuguese vs 4).

Fourth set – evenly matched, but the scales tip again

In the fourth part, the Portuguese were already dictating the rhythm. Colombia tried to come back with aces and blocks, but the stability of Marques and Pinto provided the necessary momentum. At 21:19, Portugal demonstrated composure and closed the set 25:21 to send the match to a tie-break.

Commentary:The Portuguese won the battle at the net and withstood the pressure of playing catch-up.

The tie-break decided everything

The fifth set started point-for-point up to 9:9. An ace from Benavides brought hope back to Colombia, but then Portugal imposed its will. The last two rallies – a counter-attack and a block – set the score at 15:11 and the final 3:2.

Fifth set statistics:Portugal won the match primarily through attack (25:19), adding 6 blocks. Colombia stayed in the game with 3 aces and 10 unforced errors from the opponent, but it wasn't enough.

Conclusion

Colombia leaves the match with their heads held high – besides winning their first sets and a point in the history of world championships, the team showed character against a much more experienced opponent. Portugal, on the other hand, kept their chances for the eliminations alive and will await the outcome of the USA – Cuba match.

Top Scorers

The four scorers formed the backbone of the match. While Portugal distributed the offensive load between Marques and Pinto, Colombia relied mostly on the tandem of Jimenez–Benavides.