Pasay City, Philippines.Bulgaria will meet Italy in a clash for the gold medals tomorrow. "Squadra Azzurra" decisively outplayed the European champion and this year's VNL winner, Poland, with a 3:0 victory, qualifying for the final on Sunday. The White-Reds did not present arguments against the reigning world champion and said goodbye to their dream of winning gold at the World Championship.
The World Volleyball Championship semifinal in Manila brought a painful truth for Nikola Grbic's selection. The current silver medalists from the home World Championship - Poland faced the current champion – Italy – and although they led the game at times,the "Azzurri" had the final word in all three sets. Thus, "Druzyna Polska" (the Polish team) will fight for the bronze medals, while the Italians continue their mission to defend their 2022 title.
📊 Match Statistics
| Indicator | Poland | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 30 | 34 |
| Block | 10 | 9 |
| Serve | 3 | 7 |
| Opponent Errors | 23 | 25 |
| Total Points | 66 | 75 |
🔎 Analysis
Although Poland held their own in individual elements – especially in blocking (10 vs 9) – it was the Italians who showed higher efficiency in key moments. With a better serve (7 aces vs 3and a stronger attack (34 to 30), they set the pace and controlled the match in the crucial rallies. The errors made by the Poles were close to those of Italy, but their opponent made the most of the opportunities presented.
🏐 Elements of the game
| Indicator | Poland | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive digs | 45 | 59 |
| Reception | 57 | 51 |
| Setting | 84 | 90 |
🔎 Comment
The statistics clearly highlight one thing:Italy prevailed with stable defense and better game organization. The 'Azzurri' had a total of59 defensive digsagainst 45 for Poland – a component that repeatedly allowed them to turn difficult situations in their favor. Although the Poles excelled in reception (57 to 51), the Italians compensated with higher quality setting and better interaction in attack (90 settings to 84).
🌟 Top Scorers
| Player | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Romano (No. 16) | Italy | 15 |
| Leon (No. 9) | Poland | 14 |
| Micheletto (No. 5) | Italy | 12 |
| Sasak (No. 35) | Poland | 9 |
🔎 Analysis
Two of the top scorers in the match were, respectivelyRomano with 15 pointsandWilfredo Leon with 14. The Italians demonstrated a balanced attack with the participation of other key figures – Micheletto also finished with12 points. For the Poles, the pressure fell mainly on Leon and Sasak, which facilitated the Italian defense.
🏆 Conclusion
Poland showed character and did not give up easily, butItaly looks like a team with a deeper squad, greater variability, and better defense. The 3:0 victory and a total of75 points against 66 leaves no doubt who controlled the tempo.
Now the 'Azzurri' will have a chance to defend their 2022 title in the final against Bulgaria, while the Poles will fight for bronze – a consolation that by no means matches their ambitions, but is still important for maintaining their position among the world elite.
