The opening weekend of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in Pasay City, Philippines, already delivered surprises as underdogs Czechia stunned Serbia in straight sets, while tournament favorites Brazil defeated China.
Czechia, ranked 21st in the world, produced one of the shocks of the tournament by dismantling 12th-ranked Serbia 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-20). The Czechs held the edge in attack and capitalized on Serbian errors, with Patrik Indra scoring a match-high 14 points at a 64% success rate. Lukas Vasina added 13, including two aces, to seal the upset. Serbia’s Pavle Peric also posted 14 points, while Drazen Luburic contributed 12, but their side never found rhythm.
In the day’s second Pool H clash, Brazil overcame a shaky start to defeat China 3-1 (19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-21). The South Americans looked unsettled in the opening set but tightened their defense and reduced errors as the match progressed. Arthur Bento led all scorers with 17 points, supported by Judson Nunes (14) and Alan Souza (13). China fought hard with Shikun Peng (11), Liu Libin (10), and Lei Li (9) keeping them competitive, but they couldn’t sustain the pressure against Brazil’s depth.
Brazil now prepare for a much-anticipated battle with Czechia, while Serbia face a crucial must-win against China to keep their playoff hopes alive.
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