Serbia, reigning European champion
Reigning continental champions, Serbia, showed their strength against Italy, winning in straight sets. At the European Championships, besides winning the gold medal two years ago, Serbia also won bronze in 2007, one year after independence. Serbia participated in three more tournaments – in 2003 (as Yugoslavia, ranked as ninth), in 2005 (as Serbia and Montenegro, ranked as seventh) and in 2009 (also ranked as seventh).
Serbians will play against mighty Russia, who eliminated Turkey, also in straight sets. Russia has impressive row of medals. Before the independence, as Soviet Union they won amazing 13 gold medals in European Championships (1949, 1950, 1951, 1958, 1963, 1967, 1971, 1975, 1977, 1979, 1985, 1989, 1991) and four silver medals (1955, 1981, 1983, 1987). As Russia their row is also fantastic – 4 gold (1993, 1997, 1999, 2001) and 3 bronze medals (1995, 2005, 2007).
Serbia and Russia will meet on Friday, September 13 at 17:00.
The hosts, Germany will try to redeem for losing in the finals, two years ago against Serbia in Belgrade. If they beat Belgium, and Serbia eliminates Russia, they would have opportunity for revenge. In the quarterfinals Germany defeated strong team of Croatia with maximum result. Germany has long tradition of volleyball all the way from the period when it was known as West Germany. They won 2 gold medals under that name (1983 and 1987), also 4 silver (1977, 1979, 1985 and 1989) and 1 bronze medal (1975). After 1990 when they became Germany, they also had success, winning 1 silver (2011) and 2 bronze medals (1991 and 2003), along with 3 more matches in which they lost the fight for bronze medal.
On the other hand, their opponent in the semis, Belgium, became strong volleyball country in recent years. This semifinal is their greatest success. Before that, their best ranking was seventh place in 2007. Belgium eliminated France in quarterfinals after five sets.
Germany and Belgium will play on Friday, September 13, at 20:00. Both semifinal matches will be held at Berlin’s “Max Schmeling Halle”.
For more news from this competition, click on European Championship 2013 W.
