Italy booked their spot in the Round of 16 after a commanding 3-0 win over Ukraine (25-21, 25-22, 25-18) at the World Championship. The Azzurri showed composure and control throughout, securing a date with Argentina in the knockout stage on Sunday, September 21.
Coach Ferdinando De Giorgi’s side leaned on its balance of experience and energy. After a tight opening stretch in the first set, Italy pulled away with sharp attacking from Yuri Romanò and Mattia Bottolo, while Gianluca Galassi and Roberto Russo provided stability at the net.
The second set mirrored the first, with Ukraine staying close until crunch time. A late surge capped by Alessandro Michieletto’s attack and block sealed the set 25-22. Italy’s efficiency in attack (58%) and solid blocking proved decisive.
The final set was one-way traffic, with Italy firmly in control before closing 25-18.
Top Scorers:
- Italy: Alessandro Michieletto 13, Mattia Bottolo 11, Yuri Romanò 11.
- Ukraine: Yurii Semeniuk 13, Illia Kovalov 12, Vasyl Tupchii 9.
Italy now faces a tougher challenge in the next round against Argentina, the Pool C winners.
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