The Italian women’s national team began their Olympic journey in Pool C with a strong 3-1 victory over the Dominican Republic, winning the sets 25-19, 24-26, 25-21, and 25-18. Despite facing challenges and giving up some momentum, Italy’s technical superiority prevailed.
Coach Julio Velasco selected Orro, Egonu, Fahr, Danesi, Sylla, and Bosetti for the starting lineup, with De Gennaro as libero. The Dominican side featured Marte, Gaila, Arias, Jineiry, Pena, Martinez, and Castillo.
Italy dominated the first set, though errors allowed the Dominicans to stay in contention. The second set saw a surprising comeback from the Dominican team, tying the match at 1-1. However, Italy regained control in the third and fourth sets, sealing the win.
Star opposite Paola Egonu led the Italian team with 25 points, while captain Anna Danesi and Myriam Sylla added 11 and 10 points, respectively. For the Dominican Republic, opposite Gaila Gonzalez led with 21 points (20 kills, one block), while outside hitter Yonkaira Peña and middle blocker Jineiry Martinez each contributed 12 points.
