Italy’s run in the men’s Volleyball Nations League ended in the quarterfinals following a 3-0 defeat by the United States at the Beilun Sport and Arts Centre in China.
The Americans controlled the match with aggressive serving, recording 14 aces and repeatedly disrupting Italy’s reception. Jake Hanes led the way with a match-high 21 points, including six aces, as the United States secured a semifinal meeting with Japan.
Italy kept the first set close before the United States pulled away late to win 25-22. The Americans maintained the momentum in the second, taking it 25-21.
Ferdinando De Giorgi’s side built a 15-10 lead in the third set, but the United States responded with six consecutive points and completed the sweep with another 25-21 victory.
Yuri Romanò was Italy’s top scorer with 16 points, while Mattia Bottolo added 14.
The defeat ended Italy’s campaign after eight wins in the preliminary phase, including a 3-2 victory over the United States earlier in the competition.
Result
Italy 0-3 United States
Set scores: 22-25, 21-25, 21-25
Top scorers: Jake Hanes 21, Yuri Romanò 16, Mattia Bottolo 14