Pasay City, Philippines.In a true volleyball thriller, the Iranian team defeated Serbia 3-2 in sets and secured a place in the quarterfinals of the World Championship. Thus, the Iranians remained the only representative of Asia among the top eight.
Roberto Piazza's selection demonstrated character and consistency – this time without hesitation, after being accused by the Italian in the group stage of playing with "diapers" following the dramatic victory over the hosts in the last match of the group stage.
Match development
1st set:Serbia started more confidently and imposed their game – 25:23.
2nd set:Iran responded with a more aggressive serve and tight defense – 25:19.
3rd set:The Serbs snatched the set after extra points – 26:24.
4th set:A quick reaction from the Iranians, who restored balance – 25:22.
Tie-break:The Asians started with an advantage and no longer allowed "the Blues" to come back – 15:9.
Match statistics
| Statistics | Serbia | Iran |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 60 | 67 |
| Block | 13 | 13 |
| Serve | 4 | 5 |
| Unforced errors | 24 | 27 |
| Total points | 101 | 112 |
Iran excelled in attack (67 against 60), which proved to be the key to success. The "Persians" also received more points from Serbia's unforced errors.
Team skills
| Statistics | Serbia | Iran |
|---|---|---|
| Digs | 70 | 67 |
| Reception | 98 | 89 |
| Setting (passes) | 139 | 136 |
Serbia has an advantage in reception and defense, but this did not materialize into decisive points.
Top scorers
| Serbia | Points | Iran | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luburic | 16 | Hajipour | 23 |
| Kuyundzhich | 17 | Morteza | 23 |
The Iranians distributed the responsibility between Hajipour and Morteza, who together brought almost half of the team's points. For Serbia, Luburic and Kuyundzhich tried, but remained without support from the rest of their teammates. Thus, Gheorghe Cretu's proteges finish 10th at this World Championship.
What's next
Iran will face Czech Republic in a battle for a place in the top 4 of the World Championship – a clash that promises more emotions and shows that despite the elimination of Asia's strongest representative, Japan, in the initial phase, the continent will still have a representative in the top 8 of the tournament.
photos: Nikolay Varadinov andvolleyballworld.com
