France – Belgium
Although the young French talents made an impressive start and jumped out for a 6-2 lead, Belgium booked six points in a row in the first part of set No. 1. Belgium increased speed and power to open the gap to nine points at the second technical break. Belgian middle-blocker Linde Hervent concluded the first set with an impressive block winner. While France fired back courageously in the second set (25-19), it was again Belgium’s turn in the third period (25-19).
However, the French side didn’t give up. The last part of the fourth set was very exciting and consisted long rallies with both teams showing some fancy defending skills. Nevertheless, France managed to take the set with their first set point chance (25-23). Still, in the deciding fifth set, the French hopes quickly vanished into thin air as France trailed 3-8 at side switch. The Belgium squad was unstoppable now, combining precise offensive play and very solid defensive skills. As a consequence, the result of the fifth set was beyond debate (15-6), increasing Belgium’s record to 2-1 while France is still waiting for their first triumph at 2012 CEV Junior Volleyball European Championship – Women.
French head coach Jacques Beraud: “First of all, I am very disappointed because we prepared today’s game very well and our tactic was generally working. However, we could not manage to keep the same level for the entire game.”
Belgian head coach Julien Van De Vyver: “With France we faced a direct challenger. We played well, they played well. I am happy for the win as France is playing on the same level as we do.“
