Home » VNL M: Brazil Storms to Bronze with 3-1 Win Over Slovenia

VNL M: Brazil Storms to Bronze with 3-1 Win Over Slovenia

by WoV

NINGBO, CHINA — Brazil bounced back in style at the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), clinching the bronze medal with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Slovenia (23-25, 25-20, 25-23, 25-19) in the third-place match held in Ningbo, China.

Photo: Volleyball World

After a semifinal defeat to Poland, the Brazilians regrouped and delivered a steady performance to secure their second VNL medal—adding to the gold they captured in 2021. Despite an error-heavy match from both sides, Brazil held their nerve and showed greater composure in the key moments.

Opposite hitter Alan Souza led the charge with 18 points, including 16 successful spikes at a 52% success rate, one ace, and one block. Middle blocker Matheus Bispo added 11 points, playing a crucial role in Brazil’s dominant net presence with four blocks and one ace.

While the first set saw Brazil squander a late lead to lose 23-25, they quickly corrected course. The second set was marked by tighter play and capitalizing on Slovenia’s errors, leveling the match. The third set was pivotal—Slovenia raced ahead to a 10-5 lead, but Brazil clawed back, eventually stealing the set and seizing momentum.

From 11-11 in the fourth set, Brazil rattled off five straight points to break away and never looked back. Their edge in blocking (11 to Slovenia’s 7) and serving (5 aces to 2) helped tip the balance.

Rok Mozic was Slovenia’s standout, posting a match-high 21 points, but lacked consistent support. Toncek Stern chipped in with 10 points, but the team couldn’t maintain pressure during crunch time.

“This is a new era for Brazilian volleyball,” said setter Fernando ‘Cachopa’ Kreling. “We’re rebuilding, and this medal is a huge confidence boost. It’s only the beginning.”

Slovenia’s fourth-place finish marks their third time just outside the medals, having ended in the same position in 2021 and 2024.

Final Score:
Brazil 3–1 Slovenia (23-25, 25-20, 25-23, 25-19)

Top Scorers:

  • Brazil: Alan Souza (18), Matheus Bispo (11), Arthur Bento (9)
  • Slovenia: Rok Mozic (21), Toncek Stern (10)

Stay tuned as Italy and Poland face off in the VNL 2025 final later today, with live coverage on VBTV.

Cup tree provided by Sofascore

Related Articles

Leave a Comment

thirteen − 10 =

By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies. more information

The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this.

Close