Italy
The last obstacle on their way to the final match is represented by Brazil, with the triple world champions having also stepped up the quality of their play after a disappointing campaign in the last edition of the FIVB World League. The side captained by Giba easily disposed of Argentina in the 1/4 finals and has embarked on an ambitious quest to emulate Russia and USA, the sole nations with three Olympic crowns in history up to London 2012.
The South Americans, always accompanied by plenty of colourful and loud fans at Earls Court, won gold in Barcelona (1992) as well as in Athens (2004) and another crown would be the perfect farewell for some players who have been part of the group for the past decade. The head-to-heads on the Olympic stage clearly speak for Brazil with 7 wins and no losses to Italy but after their terrific show of strength against USA, none shall rule out an additional sensation for captain Cristian Savani and his teammates.
All the results from Olympic matches can be found here:
Volleyball – Men Volleyball – Women
