France has done it again — and in style.
The defending champs pulled off a gutsy comeback to beat Poland 3-1 in the FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship final, clinching their second straight title. After losing the first set, France roared back with big plays from Andrej Jokanovic, who scored 24 points, and team captain Noa Duflos Rossi, who added 20.
- Poland vs France 1-3 (25-22, 22-25, 15-25,12-25)
“We told ourselves, ‘This is it. This is the final we’ve worked for,’” said Jokanovic. “From there, we just pushed and played like we know how.”
Poland started strong, but once France found its rhythm, there was no stopping them. The fourth set was a blowout, ending 25-12 as France sealed the win with power and precision.
Spain Takes Bronze
Spain held off Iran in a thrilling five-set match to grab the bronze medal. Cesar Irache was the star, delivering a monster 38-point performance to help Spain reach the podium for just the second time.
Final Standings Highlights:
- Italy battled past Bulgaria for 5th
- Finland beat Korea to take 7th
- China swept Brazil for 9th
- Belgium defeated Argentina for 11th
- Pakistan overpowered hosts Uzbekistan for 13th
- USA edged Japan in a tight five-setter to finish 15th
As the tournament concluded in Tashkent, the Dream Team of the 2025 FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship was unveiled.
2025 Dream Team:
- MVP & Best Outside Hitter: Andrej Jokanovic (France)
- Best Outside Hitter: Noa Duflos Rossi (France)
- Best Middle Blockers: Daniel Lyegbekedo (France), Tymoleusz Lenik (Poland)
- Best Opposite: Cesar Irache (Spain)
- Best Setter: Madej Drag (Poland)
- Best Libero: Guillaume Respaut (France)
These rising stars delivered elite performances, with Jokanovic leading the charge.
- BRA W: Osasco Beats Mackenzie and Re-enters Top Three
- ITA M: Perugia Pull Clear, Civitanova Sweep Verona
- ITA W: Conegliano, Milano and Bergamo cruise; Scandicci edge Chieri again
- POL M: Resovia Stuns Champions; Projekt Warszawa Reclaims PlusLiga Lead
- TUR W: Fenerbahçe cruise past Galatasaray in straight sets