France battled back from a set down to defeat Cuba 3-2 in an entertaining Volleyball Nations League encounter, securing a second consecutive five-set victory in Orléans.
Andrea Giani’s side recovered from losing the second and third set to claim a 25-22, 21-25, 25-27, 25-20, 15-13 win after two hours and 13 minutes of play. France finished with a narrow 111-107 advantage in total points.
Trevor Clevenot starred for the hosts with a match-high 20 points, while Mathis Henno added 15 and Henri Léon chipped in with 14. Cuba was led by Miguel Angel López with 19 points and Marlon Yant with 16.
France held a slight edge in attacking points (63-60) and produced seven service aces compared to Cuba’s two. Cuba finished with an 11-10 advantage in blocks, but France capitalized on 31 opponent errors to seal the comeback victory.
Result: France 3-2 Cuba (25-22, 21-25, 25-27, 25-20, 15-13)