Defending champions Italy advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Nations League after defeating the Netherlands in straight sets, continuing their bid for a third consecutive title.
The Italians secured a dominant 3-0 victory (25-21, 25-16, 25-16), producing another composed display to book a semifinal against the winner of the Brazil-Japan quarterfinal.
Italy overcame a competitive opening set before taking full control of the match. After edging the first set, Julio Velasco’s side comfortably dictated the second and third sets, sealing victory in just over an hour.
Opposite Ekaterina Antropova led all scorers with 16 points, including three aces and three blocks. Myriam Sylla added 11 points, while Sarah Fahr contributed 10 as Italy outperformed the Dutch in every major statistical category.
Head coach Julio Velasco praised his team’s overall performance, highlighting improvements in defense and serving after a challenging start.
Antropova said the opening knockout match helped the team regain rhythm, while libero Eleonora Fersino credited Italy’s focus and consistency throughout the contest.
For the Netherlands, Elles Dambrink was the only player to reach double figures with 13 points. Despite the defeat, the Dutch concluded a campaign that saw them reach the VNL Finals after a strong tournament.
Result
2026 FIVB Volleyball Nations League Finals – Quarterfinal
Italy 3-0 Netherlands (25-21, 25-16, 25-16)
Top scorers:
- Italy: Ekaterina Antropova 16, Myriam Sylla 11, Sarah Fahr 10
- Netherlands: Elles Dambrink 13
Match statistics:
- Blocks: Italy 10, Netherlands 3
- Aces: Italy 7, Netherlands 2
- Attack points: Italy 42, Netherlands 38
- Match duration: 70 minutes