Italy’s volleyball queens are marching on. The Olympic champions booked their spot in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship semifinals with a commanding win over Poland. With the 3-0 sweep, Italy extended their incredible unbeaten run to 34 matches and kept their golden dreams alive.
Egonu Shines Brightest
When Italy need a spark, they can always count on Paola Egonu. The star opposite was unstoppable once again, racking up 20 points—19 kills and a block—that left Poland struggling to keep pace.
“We honestly didn’t expect it to be this clear,” captain Anna Danesi admitted after the match. “But we stayed focused, played point by point, and never lost our rhythm. That’s been our way all summer.”
Her words summed up Italy’s performance perfectly: calm, disciplined, and ruthless when it mattered.
A Team Effort Behind the Win
While Egonu stole the headlines, Italy’s success went far beyond just one player. Sarah Fahr dominated at the net, scoring 12 points, including four blocks that broke Poland’s momentum time and again. Danesi provided leadership and defensive grit, making sure Italy never let up.
It wasn’t just about flashy plays—it was about balance, patience, and doing the small things right. That’s been Italy’s trademark during this historic unbeaten streak.
Poland’s Brave Fight Falls Short
Poland didn’t go down without a fight. Magdalena Stysiak led the charge with 15 points, while Paulina Damaske added nine. But too many unforced errors—19 in total compared to Italy’s 11—ended up tilting the match heavily in Italy’s favor.
“It’s been a special journey for us,” Polish captain Agnieszka Korneluk reflected. “But Italy showed why they are Olympic champions. We made mistakes at key moments, especially in the second set, and they punished us.”
Despite the loss, Poland exit the tournament with their heads held high, having battled against one of the strongest teams in the world.
The Road Ahead for Italy
The Italians now turn their attention to Saturday’s semifinal in Bangkok. Their opponent will be decided on Thursday, when Brazil face France in another quarterfinal clash.
Italy’s history at this tournament speaks volumes: gold in 2002, silver in 2018, and bronze in 2022. Now, with momentum and confidence on their side, they’re aiming for the top of the podium once again.
Drama in the other Quarters
Earlier on the day, fans were treated to a five-set thriller as Japan edged the Netherlands 3-2 in a rollercoaster battle. Japan now wait for the winner of United States vs. Türkiye to complete the semifinal lineup.
Italy’s Golden Chase Continues
For Italy, the mission is simple: stay sharp, stay united, and keep pushing. With Egonu firing on all cylinders, Fahr and Danesi holding the middle, and a squad brimming with depth, the team looks more determined than ever to bring home another world title. And if their current form is any indication, Italy’s story in Bangkok might just have the perfect golden ending.
- Italy Cruise Past Poland to Reach Fourth Straight Semifinal
- Japan Stun Netherlands in Five-Set Thriller to Reach Semifinals
- POL M: Lukas Kampa Joins Barkom Każany Lwów
- Final Eight Ready as Women’s Volleyball Worlds Heat Up in Thailand
- Women’s Volleyball World Championship: Quarterfinal Line-Up Confirmed
