On the final day of preliminary play in the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Italy confirming its dominance, Brazil stunning hosts Japan, and Belgium finishing on a high with a comeback win over Czechia. Here’s how all three matches unfolded in a day full of action, and records.
Italy Completes Perfect VNL Phase With 3-0 Win Over Netherlands
At the Omnisport Arena in Apeldoorn, Italy made history by defeating the Netherlands in straight sets (25-23, 28-26, 25-18), wrapping up a flawless 12-0 run in the intercontinental phase. This victory marks their 26th official win in a row, tying a national record held since 2008.
Coach Julio Velasco rotated the lineup after a taxing game against Turkey, but his squad didn’t skip a beat. Ekaterina Antropova was in top form with 25 points, supported by Fahr and Giovannini. Despite some pressure from the Dutch—especially in the tightly contested second set—Italy’s composure and depth proved too much.
The win ensures Italy enters the Finals in Łódź, Poland, later this July as the No. 1 seed and top contender for gold.
Brazil Silences Japan’s Crowd With Ruthless 3-0 Sweep
Over in Chiba, Brazil delivered a statement win by overpowering Japan 3-0 (25-17, 25-18, 25-20), denying the hosts a perfect week and confirming second-place finish in the standings.
Outside hitter Julia Bergmann dazzled with 15 points on a 64% attack rate, while team captain Gabriela Guimaraes (Gabi) added 11 more, including the match-winning spike. Setter Roberta Ratzke orchestrated Brazil’s attack brilliantly, even scoring four aces herself.
Despite Japan’s energetic start and home support, Brazil’s block-defense system suffocated the attack led by Mayu Ishikawa—Japan’s only double-digit scorer with 12 points.
Belgium Rallies to Beat Czechia in Four Sets
Back in Apeldoorn earlier in the day, Belgium overcame a slow start to defeat Czechia 3-1 (19-25, 25-23, 25-17, 25-21) and finish their campaign with a respectable 4-8 record.
The Belgians were led by a phenomenal performance from opposite Pauline Martin, who racked up 31 points—including the final three of the match in dramatic fashion. Middle blockers Anna Koulberg and Nathalie Lemmens also stepped up with a combined 24 points.
Czechia fought valiantly, with Michaela Mlejnkova and Helena Grozer leading the attack. However, they couldn’t match Belgium’s offensive firepower in the latter sets and will now wait to see how final standings shake out.
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