In a dramatic showdown at the Volleyball Nations League, Italy weathered a strong Ukrainian comeback to secure a tense 3-2 victory VNL Preliminary Phase tournament in Slovenia.
The defending world champions came out firing at the Arena Stožice, comfortably taking the first two sets (25-15, 25-20). But Ukraine, playing in their first VNL season, refused to back down. They turned the tide in the third and fourth sets (16-25, 23-25), forcing a nail-biting decider. With the match on the line, Italy found their rhythm again, closing the fifth set 15-10 to win the match and maintain their push for the Finals.
Outside hitter Alessandro Michieletto was Italy’s standout performer, notching 20 points (15 attack, three blocks, two aces). Ukraine’s valiant effort was led by Dmytro Yanchuk, who scored a match-high 25 points, and Vasyl Tupchii, who added 16.
In Gdańsk tournament, Iran swept China 3-0 in the Asian Derby, improving their chances for a Finals berth with five wins and 16 points.
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