The Men's Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines began with a series of surprises already in the preliminary phase. First, Japan was eliminated early, and the hosts from the Philippines shocked everyone by being a video challenge away from knocking out Iran. But the real "bomb" exploded in Group C Olympic champion France ended its participation after three matches played, eliminated by inspired Argentina.
Legendary setter Luciano De Cecco, a record holder for World Championship appearances, led the "Gauchos" to a victory that will go down in history. Andrea Giani's team was stopped in the preliminary phase a scenario that seemed impossible until yesterday.
The outcome of the match
In the first set, Argentina showed no intention of backing down and snatched the part with 28:26. The French were again put under pressure in the second and lost 23:25. With a strong attacking game, the "Roosters" reduced the deficit after 25:21 and leveled the score in the fourth set with 25:20.
In the tie-break, however, Argentina showed composure 15:12 and a historic victory, which sealed the biggest surprise of the championship, and that too in the very first phase of the tournament.
Decisive factors
France excelled in attack, but Argentina compensated with better blocking and more stable reception. This balance allowed De Cecco to control the tempo and effectively utilize his hitters. Although the French had more digs in defense, the difference in organization and confidence in key moments favored the "Gauchos."
Leaders on the court
For France, Théo Faure finished with 21 points, and Trevor Clévenot added 17. For Argentina, Luciano Vicentin was above all with 22 points, and Luciano Palonsky scored 17. The duo of the South American namesakes delivered their strongest minutes precisely in the tie-break.
France leaves the championship with great disappointment and without realizing its dream of having a world title in addition to the Olympic one. Argentina is now among the great heroes of the tournament the victory over the "Roosters" could prove crucial for their ambitions in the next phase.
