Italy completed a perfect run at the Agata Mróz-Olszewska Memorial with a 3-0 victory over hosts Poland, winning 25-16, 25-21, 25-20 in front of a packed Sport and Entertainment Hall.
Julio Velasco’s side finished the tournament with three wins from three after also beating France and Ukraine, dropping only one set across the event. The Koszalin tournament provided Italy with a valuable final test ahead of the European Championship.
Paola Egonu led the winners with 15 points, while Ekaterina Antropova added 13 after being deployed as an outside hitter following Loveth Omoruyi’s injury. Sarah Fahr scored nine and Anna Danesi eight.
Antropova Gives Velasco Another Option
Antropova’s performance in the outside-hitter role was another positive for Italy. Usually deployed as an opposite, she adapted well to the change and finished with 13 points.
Velasco praised his team’s ability to perform despite the difficult circumstances created by Omoruyi’s injury, highlighting both the tactical discipline and spirit shown by his players.
For Italy, the victory completed an encouraging stay in Poland. The team beat France 3-0, Ukraine 3-1 and Poland 3-0, providing a strong finish to preparations before attention turns to the European Championship.
Italy 3-0 Poland: 25-16, 25-21, 25-20
Top scorers: Egonu 15, Antropova 13; Stysiak 10
Aces: Italy 6, Poland 5
Winning blocks: Italy 12, Poland 4
Match duration: 73 minutes