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.
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.
- Huge Blow for Italy: Daniele Lavia Suffers Serious Hand Injury Ahead of World Championship
- FIVB WC W: Serbia Dominates Ukraine
- FIVB WC W: Türkiye Open World Championship with Dominant Win
- FIVB WC W: Germany Sweep Kenya in Confident Start
- FIVB WC W: Canada Defeats Bulgaria