France became the first semifinalists at the CEV EuroVolley 2026 Men after a convincing straight-sets win over Romania in Sofia.
Andrea Giani’s team arrived at the quarterfinal with a point to prove after losing 3-2 to Romania in the pool stage. The knockout rematch proved very different, with France taking control through aggressive serving and a dominant performance at the net.
The first set was level at 13-13 before Simon Magnin’s consecutive aces sparked a French surge. Romania could not stop the momentum as Andrea Giani’s side pulled away to win 25-16.
France established another sizeable advantage in the second set. Romania reduced the deficit to 17-15, but the Olympic champions responded strongly, with Théo Faure and François Huetz playing key roles in a 25-19 finish.
Romania stayed close during the early part of the third set before France again gained control. Despite a late push from Daniel Chițigoi, the French remained composed and completed the sweep with another 25-19 win.
Faure led the match with 19 points, while Huetz scored 11, including six blocks. Chițigoi finished with 11 points for Romania.
France recorded 10 blocks to Romania’s three and held a 5-0 advantage in aces. They will face the winner of the Italy-Finland quarterfinal in the last four.
Result: France – Romania 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-19)
