The Men`s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines witnessed thrilling action on its third day, concluding the preliminary phase for Pools A, C, F, and H. A major highlight was Czechia`s stunning straight-sets upset over Serbia, marking a powerful start to their campaign.
Credit: Volleyball World
Pool A Recap
Iran vs. Egypt
Egypt 3-1 Iran (25-17, 16-25, 25-23, 25-20)
Egypt delivered a significant upset in Pool A, defeating Iran 3-1 in their opening match. Ahmed Shafik Said (18 points, 62% attack efficiency) and Abdelrahman Elhossiny (17 points, 65% attack efficiency) were key performers for Egypt. Opposite Seif Abed also contributed 12 points. Statistically, Egypt had the edge in spike kills (52-45) and aces (8-4). Iran, however, outblocked Egypt (10-7) and committed fewer unforced errors (24 vs. 26). For Iran, Ali Hajipour contributed 17 points (three kill blocks and an ace), and Poriya Khanzadeh added 12 points (three aces and two kill blocks).
Credit: Volleyball World
Pool C Recap
Argentina vs. Finland
Argentina 3-2 Finland (19-25, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-11)
France vs. Korea
France 3-0 Korea (25-12, 25-18, 25-16)
In Pool C, two-time Olympic champions France commenced their World Championship journey with a dominant 3-0 sweep against Korea. France showcased superiority across the board: 35-28 in spike kills, 10-4 in blocks, and a commanding 10-0 lead in aces, also benefiting from more opponent errors. Jean Patry was exceptional, leading with a team-high 16 points (including 3 aces and 2 blocks) and an impressive 73% attack success rate. Heo Subong topped Korea’s scoring with 9 points. Patry commented that it was key for France to enjoy their play and start the tournament with the right energy, especially since some players may be contemplating retirement after this event and are looking for one last memorable run together.
Credit: Volleyball World
Pool F Recap
Italy vs. Algeria
Italy 3-0 Algeria (25-13, 25-22, 25-17)
Ukraine vs. Belgium
Belgium 3-0 Ukraine (25-16, 25-17, 25-22)
Pool F saw Belgium open their campaign with a decisive 3-0 sweep over Ukraine. The `Red Dragons` immediately set a strong pace in each set. Opposite spiker Ferre Reggers was instrumental, delivering a match-high 23 points (20 attack points + 3 blocks). He was well-supported by Seppe Rotty (13 points) and team captain Sam Deroo (12 points), who recently recovered after surgery. Belgium also demonstrated superior blocking, recording 10 blocks versus 5 from Ukraine. This commanding victory provides Belgium with significant momentum as they prepare to face reigning world champions Italy in their next big match, scheduled for September 16th.
Credit: Volleyball World
Pool H Recap
Brazil vs. China
Brazil 3-1 China (19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-21)
Serbia vs. Czechia
Czechia 3-0 Serbia (25-22, 25-23, 25-20)
In Pool H, Czechia, ranked 21st globally, delivered a stunning 3-0 upset against 12th-ranked Serbia. This victory significantly boosted Czechia`s FIVB World Ranking by three spots to 18th, while Serbia fell to 13th. Although Serbia briefly took early leads in sets, Czechia consistently maintained control of the scoreboard. Key stats favoring Czechia included a 4-0 lead in aces, a narrow edge in spike kills (45-43), and fewer unforced errors (17 vs. 23). Patrik Indra was the match`s top scorer with 14 points, all from attacks and hitting at a 64% success rate, scoring the match-winning point. Lukas Vasina added 13 points, including half of Czechia’s aces. For Serbia, Pavle Peric also put up 14 points, while opposite Drazen Luburic contributed 12.
