Volleyball
A dramatic day at the Women`s World Championship in Bangkok saw Italy deliver a commanding straight-sets victory against Poland, while Japan secured their semifinal spot after an epic five-set battle against the Netherlands. Both teams showcased incredible skill and determination, earning their places in the next stage of the competition.
Japan Triumphs Over Netherlands in Five-Set Thriller
Netherlands 2-3 Japan (25-20, 20-25, 25-22, 22-25, 12-15)
The quarterfinal match between the Netherlands and Japan proved to be a true rollercoaster of emotions. The Dutch squad twice managed to take the lead in sets, but the resilient Japanese team fought back with unwavering determination each time, forcing the game into a decisive fifth set. Despite holding a crucial three-point advantage in the tie-break, the Netherlands faltered as Japan staged a remarkable comeback. The thrilling contest culminated in a match-winning smash from captain Mayu Ishikawa, clinching a hard-fought 3-2 victory for Japan.
Japan`s attacking prowess was a decisive factor in their win, with their hitters collectively tallying 75 points, significantly surpassing the 61 points from the Dutch side. Opposite Yukiko Wada led the charge with an impressive 27 points, which included four powerful aces. Captain Ishikawa was close behind, contributing 25 points, seven of which came in the critical tie-break, alongside two kill-blocks and an ace. Yoshino Sato added 13 points, all from spikes, and middle blocker Airi Miyabe chipped in with 10 points, including two aces and a block.
In contrast, the Netherlands excelled in blocking, registering 11 blocks against Japan`s 3. Eline Timmerman was particularly effective in this aspect, contributing six blocks, two aces, and maintaining a strong hitting percentage to accumulate 18 points. Elles Dambrink was the top scorer for the Dutch with 19 attack points, supported by Marrit Jasper with 13, and Nika Daalderop and middle Britte Stuut each adding 12 points to their team`s tally.
This momentous victory marks Japan`s first semifinal appearance since they famously won bronze on home soil in 2010. Their next opponent will be determined by the highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup between the USA and Türkiye.
Italy Dominates Poland with a Straight-Sets Victory
Italy 3-0 Poland (25-17, 25-21, 25-18)
Italy`s coach Julio Velasco opted for his established and successful starting lineup: Orro (setter), Egonu (opposite), Sylla and Nervini (outside hitters), Danesi and Fahr (middle blockers), and De Gennaro (libero). Poland`s initial lineup featured Wenerska-Stysiak as the setter-opposite duo, Gryka and Korneluk in the middle, Lukasik and Damaske on the wings, and Szczyglowska as libero.
From the very outset, Italy asserted its dominance with exceptional reception, precise and sharp attacks, and a formidable blocking game. Orro`s efficient setting orchestrated contributions from all attackers—Egonu, Sylla, Nervini, Fahr, and Danesi—ensuring a balanced offensive threat. Poland struggled significantly to find their rhythm, with Damaske`s brief resistance unable to prevent Italy from comfortably taking the first set with a score of 25-17.
The second set began with a more even exchange of points, with Stysiak and Lukasik helping Poland momentarily edge ahead 14-13, prompting a tactical timeout from coach Velasco. Italy responded swiftly and effectively, regaining momentum with a crucial block from Fahr and capitalizing on a series of Polish errors to reclaim the lead. A strong offensive run driven by Danesi, Sylla, and Egonu then secured the set for Italy with a score of 25-21.
Italy maintained unwavering control throughout the third set. Egonu and Sylla continued to spearhead the attack, while De Gennaro`s critical defensive plays further fueled their momentum and confidence. Poland, unable to disrupt Italy`s consistent rhythm, quickly fell behind, trailing 15-9. A double substitution and a solid entry from Giovannini helped Italy seal the decisive 25-18 victory, completing a dominant straight-sets win.
The “Azzurre” will return to the court on September 6 to face their next formidable opponent: the winner of the Brazil–France quarterfinal, which is scheduled to take place on September 4.
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