BARI & VARNA – After nail-biting Round of 16 clashes, Slovenia and Italy have confirmed their spots in the quarterfinals of the European Volleyball Championship.
In an electrifying match against Turkiye, the Slovenian team showcased their resilience, coming back from a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2. The Slovenians had an unpromising start, losing 25-20 in the first set and 25-22 in the second. However, their renewed vigor saw them win the next three sets, 25-21, 25-23, and 15-13, marking their fifth straight quarter-final appearance. Rok Možič shone with 19 points for Slovenia, while Turkiye’s Adis Lagumdžija notched an impressive 32 points.
Slovenia now awaits their quarterfinal competitors, who will be decided between Ukraine and Portugal’s clash in Varna.
Meanwhile, in Bari, Italy comfortably dispatched North Macedonia in a 3:0 sweep. With an astounding 5,125 spectators in attendance, Italy showcased their championship mettle, winning 25-20, 25-12, and 25-15. Italian standout Daniele Lavia scored 16 points, with Michieletto and Romanò both adding 12 points. North Macedonia’s Ljaftov contributed 10 personal points.
Italy now prepares for their quarter-final match on Tuesday, setting sights on the winner between the Netherlands and Germany.
Round of 16 in Bari, Italy,
September 9, 2023
Italy vs. North Macedonia 3-0 (25-20, 25-12, 25-15)
Netherlands vs. Germany
September 10, 2023
Poland vs. Belgium
Serbia vs. Czech Republic
Round of 16 in Varna,
September 8, 2023
Croatia vs. Romania 2-3 (17-25, 20-25, 25-17, 28-26, 12-15)
France vs. Bulgaria 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-15)
September 9, 2023
Slovenia vs. Turkiye 3-2 (20-25, 22-25, 25-21, 25-23, 15-13)
Portugal vs. Ukraine
