Brazil – Russia
Brazil was without doubt the clear leader in the international volleyball in the first decade of the 21st century. They had success in the World League, won the World Championship in 2002 and in 2006, won the Olympics in Athens.
“Final in London showed that change is happening in the world of volleyball. Brazil is no longer the main giant. Of course, it is still a powerful country in our sport. Every year there are new, world-class talents. However, the Brazilian national team doesn’t have the “killer instinct” that distinguished Giba and his teammates from other national teams. Now other teams are not afraid of Brazilians” he said.
“In the finals in London, Russia has shown that it is a great team, and Vladimir Alekno such a coach who will do anything to win. Final in London showed the truth, I knew before. Alekno is one of the best coaches of the world” said Ball, who along with the U.S. team won the Olympic gold medal in Beijing after winning the final over Brazil.
“I think that Poland and Bulgaria will follow the footsteps of Russia. I believe that the Olympic champion in Rio de Janeiro will be one of these teams” Lloy Ball said.
But this great American player made a mistake in the evaluation of opportunities for U.S. national team in these Olympic Games.
