In a dramatic semifinal showdown at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Italy and the United States secured their spots in the gold medal match. Italy, making their first Olympic final appearance, defeated Türkiye 3-0 (25-22, 25-19, 25-22) for the second time in four days. With this win, Italy guarantees their first Olympic medal in volleyball.
Paola Egonu led the Italians with 24 points, while Myriam Sylla added 12. Türkiye’s top scorer, Melissa Vargas, was quieter than usual with 17 points, and Derya Cebecioğlu contributed seven points off the bench.
Earlier in the day, the United States, the reigning Olympic champions, overcame Brazil in a thrilling 3-2 (25-23, 18-25, 25-15, 23-25, 15-11) match. Kathryn Plummer and Avery Skinner were pivotal for the Americans, scoring 26 and 19 points respectively, with Jordan Larson adding 18 points. Brazil’s Ana Cristina Souza led her team with 24 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
Italy and the USA will now face off for the gold medal, promising an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
