WL: Semi-final for Serbia, pole-position for Poland, elimination for Italy

Serbia

One more amazing volleyball show in Rio! Serbia managed to perform a big comeback against Poland and to secure the ticket for the semi-finals in the very last moment!

The reigning champions of the world started really strong and stormed through the first set leaving Serbia on seven points behind – 25:18. But, boys led by Nikola Grbić answered back immediately and won the second set by 25:22. It was all tied at 1-1.

Recall that Serbia needed a win to advance to the next stage, while in other case Italy would gain the ticket for the semi-finals. And, Azzurri were just a step away from that prize after Poland won the third set against Serbia – 25:22. The red and whites have therefore secured the pole-position in the Pool, but head coach Stephane Antiga played fair and left the best lineup on the court. Still, Serbia managed to once again tie the score with a 25:22 win in the fourth set.

The tie-break was about to decide the last semi-finalists.

There, neither team managed to escape on a two-point margin. Serbia and Poland were just next to each other for the whole time, but it was Serbia that reached the first match ball – 14:13. And, like in many occasions this summer, coach Nikola Grbić sent his secret weapon Aleksandar Okolić on the service line.

Young middle blocker decided to aim for none other than Pawel Zatorski with his serve! Experenced libero could not handle the ball well… ACE!!! Serbia – Poland 15:13. Serbia – Poland 3-2!

Serbia qualified for the semi-finals of the World League 2015! Poland won the top spot in the Pool, while Italy got aliminated from the tournament.

FINALS 1ST GROUP / POOL J /

To see standings, more reports, stats and videos from this competition click on World League 2015.

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