Italy continues its winning streak in the Pool 6 of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held in Fukuoka, Japan. Following their initial victory against Canada and securing an Olympic berth through the world ranking, the Italian team triumphed over South Korea with a 3-0 (25-16, 25-11, 25-12) win, marking their eighth victory in the VNL.
This significant win not only underscores Italy’s dominance but also cements their qualification for the VNL Finals scheduled next week in Bangkok from June 20 to 23. Ekaterina Antropova emerged as the top scorer with 20 points.
With little time to celebrate, Italy is set to face the United States tomorrow, followed by a match against Serbia on Sunday.
Match Summary: Italy vs. South Korea 3-0
- Score: 25-16, 25-11, 25-12
- Italy Lineup: Fahr 13, Orro 3, Sylla 5, Bonifacio 5, Antropova 20, Degradi 11, De Gennaro (L), Lubian, Cambi 3, Spirito (L), Giovannini 5.
- South Korea Lineup: Dahyeon 1, Sowhi 2, Hoyoung 3, Jiyun M. 10, Jiyun J. 7, Dahye (L), Chaewon (L), Jiwon, Dain, Juah 1, Jeongmin 1, Jeongha 3, Seungju, Suyean.
The Italian Volleyball Federation President, Giuseppe Manfredi, expressed immense satisfaction with the team’s performance and Olympic qualification. He praised Coach Julio Velasco and his staff for their outstanding work under time constraints.
Other VNL Highlights:
- The Netherlands defeated Canada 3-0 (26-24, 25-16, 25-23), widening their gap in the FIVB World Ranking points and edging closer to securing their Olympic berth.
- Poland bounced back from a loss to Brazil with a 3-0 win over the Dominican Republic.
- Serbia continued to struggle, losing to France in a four-set match, marking their seventh defeat in the league.