07/01/2019
Kurek, Heynen pick up prestigious awards for amazing Polish season
Lausanne, Switzerland, January 7, 2019 - Bartosz Kurek, who led Poland to an incredible back-to-back title at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship has become the first volleyball player to ever win the prestigious 'Superchampion' prize awarded each year by Przeglad Sportowy, Poland's oldest sports newspaper, which goes to Poland's athlete of the year.
27/12/2018
Year in review: Taking charge when it counts – MVP Kurek
Lausanne, Switzerland, December 27, 2018 – When it came to deciding who would be honoured as the Most Valuable Player of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, Bartosz Kurek was the clear choice. The 30-year-old outside hitter led his teammates to their second world title in a row and certainly deserved the highest individual award of the tournament even in a competition featuring the planet’s most outstanding volleyballers.
26/12/2018
2018 Review: Poland claim world title second time in a row
Lausanne, Switzerland, December 26, 2018 – It may have come as a surprise to some, but the White-and-Reds of Poland were at their best when in counted most in 2018 when they won their second consecutive FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship title in Italy and Bulgaria. And once again they beat Brazil for the gold, this time in just three sets – 3-0 (28-26, 25-20, 25-23).
06/11/2018
World Championships: The coaches who made it happen
Lausanne, Switzerland, November 6, 2018 - Vital Heynen and Zoran Terzic
were the coaches who made history this year, guiding the men's team of
Poland and the women's of Serbia to their celebrated titles at the 2018
FIVB World Championships in Italy/Bulgaria and in Japan.
05/11/2018
Bartosz Kurek: The Pole's steady rise to stardom
Lausanne, Switzerland, November 5, 2018 - Four years after sitting out the 2014 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship at home in Poland, the country's superstar led the squad to back-to-back world titles this year in Italy and Bulgaria, earning himself the coveted honour of Most Valuable Player.
08/10/2018
“Magical and inspirational” – 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the Olympic trade media
Lausanne, Switzerland, October 8, 2018 – Key Olympic trade media have written about their magical experience at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, and the innovations that the FIVB puts in place for its flagship event.
02/10/2018
Watch: Top 5 plays of the Finals
Turin, Italy, October 2, 2018 - Look back at some of the best plays from the final days of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship. From September 9 to 30, 24 teams battled for honours across cities in Italy and Bulgaria with six teams qualifying for the 3rd Round in Turin and Poland defeating Brazil to claim gold.
02/10/2018
Statistical review: A remarkable Men's World Championship in numbers
Turin, Italy, October 2, 2018 - After three weeks and 94 matches of thrilling volleyball, culminating in Poland's exceptional performance in the final against Brazil to claim the title at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, the stars of the show can count the numbers that made them shine.
02/10/2018
Poland given hero’s welcome on return home
Lausanne, Switzerland, October 2, 2018 – Poland’s players and staff have been welcomed back home as national heroes following the successful defence of their FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship title on Sunday.
02/10/2018
Social media salutes Poland’s fantastic world champions
Lausanne, Switzerland, October 2, 2018 – Poland’s successful defence of their world title at the Italy-Bulgaria 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship has been earning plaudits around the world via social media.
01/10/2018
Questions answered as Men's World Championship wraps up
Turin, Italy, October 1, 2018 - Three weeks and 94 matches ago, at
the start of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, we posed questions
that were awaiting answers, as fans across the globe were looking
forward in high anticipation to the greatest volleyball show on earth.
Now, we have the answers:
01/10/2018
Poland retake the world by storm
Turin, Italy, October 1, 2018 - An unstoppable Poland, led by tournament
MVP Bartosz Kurek, denied Brazil for the second time in a row, claiming
back-to-back titles, Sunday at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship
here in the capital of Piedmont region.
30/09/2018
Other coaches have great players, I have a great team - Heynen
Turin, Italy, September 30, 2018 - An outstanding performance, a strong
team identity and an even more strong bond between men: Poland's victory
in the FIVB Men's World Championship was a collective wonder - the
protagonists say. And Brazil take a bow to the champions, recognising
their full merit.
30/09/2018
Poland triumph over Brazil to retain world title for four more years
Turin, Italy, September 30, 2018 - Poland shut out Brazil 3-0 (28-26, 25-20, 25-23) in a thrilling final of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship before yet another sellout crowd at Turin's Pala Alpitour to collect the third world title in their history, after 1974 and 2014.
30/09/2018
Bartosz Kurek named MVP to lead World Dream Team
Turin, Italy, September 30, 2018 - Bartosz Kurek has been named Most Valuable Player of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, Sunday night in Turin for his role in leading Poland to their third consecutive world title.
30/09/2018
We thank the Italian fans for supporting us - Christenson
Turin, Italy, September 30, 2018 - The Serbian pride survives intact
despite their defeat in the Bronze final of the FIVB Men's World
Championship, while in the Mixed Zone after the bronze medal match of
the 2018 FIVB World Championship an emotional Micah Christenson thanked
the 12,011 in attendance at the PalaAlpitour for the enchanting
atmosphere.
30/09/2018
USA rebound from a set down to claim world bronze over Serbia
Turin, Italy, September 30, 2018 - USA picked up the bronze medal of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship with a thrilling 3-1 (23-25, 25-17, 32-30, 25-19) win over Serbia at Turin's Pala Alpitour, just ahead of the grand final featuring Brazil and Poland.
30/09/2018
Poland to defend world title against Brazil in repeat of 2014 final
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Poland set up a repeat of the 2014
FIVB World Championship final when they produced a solid performance to
edge USA in five sets in the semifinals of this year's edition,
advancing to meet Brazil on Sunday at the Pala Alpitour in this northern
Italian city in the shadow of the Alps.
30/09/2018
Third meeting for Brazil and Poland in World Championship finals
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Brazil and Poland go head-to-head in a
World Championship final for the third time in the history of the
competition, Sunday at Turin's Pala Alpitour, as the 2018 edition wraps
up. Brazil beat Poland in straight sets in the 2006 final in Tokyo,
before Poland took revenge with a 3-1 win in 2014 at home in Katowice.
30/09/2018
Serbia and USA in rematch of opener - this time for bronze
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Serbia and USA go for the bronze
medal of the 2018 FIVB World Championship, Sunday in Turin, as they come
head-to-head for the second time in this competition after the
Americans defeated the European side in five sets on the opening day,
three weeks ago in Bari.
30/09/2018
We will enter the court to win in the final - Kurek
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Poland was welcomed with little
skepticism at the beginning of the tournament, but once again proved to
have one of the purest volleyball DNAs in the World as veteran Bartosz
Kurek proved the Poles are never beaten. Same thing for the USA, who
admitted the opponent's superiority after a dramatic semifinal clash.
29/09/2018
Poland defeat USA to set up rematch of 2014 final
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Poland came back from 1-2 down to
beat USA 3-2 (25-22, 20-25, 23-25, 25-20, 15-11) and claim the second
ticket to the final of the the 2018 FIVB World Championship, where they
meet Brazil in a rematch of the 2014 gold medal game which Poland won in
four sets.
29/09/2018
In Brazil no one is irreplaceable - Bruno
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Despite being a technical master of
volleyball, Brazil captain Bruno Rezende seems to prefer hustle as an
attribute. And after Brazil beat Serbia in the first semifinal of the
2018 FIVB Men's World Championship, he chose to underline the Selecao
philosophy: everybody is important, nobody is indispensable.
29/09/2018
Brazil's set of setters chase Serbia out
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Brazil left Serbia not even a glimmer
of hope, as the cruised past the Balkan side 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-22) in
the first semifinal of the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship, Saturday
evening at Turin's Pala Alpitour.
29/09/2018
Brazil-Serbia and Poland-USA in business end of Men's World Championship
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - It maybe won't be quite the same
without Italy and the energy and passion the hosts inspired the huge
crowds with, but Brazil meet Serbia and USA clash with Poland in the
semifinals, as the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship comes down to its
last two thrilling days of action with the medals round here in the
capital of Piedmont region.
29/09/2018
Legendary Giba discusses Brazil, Italy and the Final Six
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Gilberto Amauri Godoy Filho, the
legendary 'Giba' who led Brazil to their three world championship titles
plus an Olympic gold, has been actively following his country's team at
the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship from the stands of Turin's Pala
Alpitour.
29/09/2018
Men's World Championship reaches climax with semifinals
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - Rio 2016 Olympic champions Brazil meet Serbia and defending world champions Poland take on USA as the
2018 FIVB Men's World Championship peaks Saturday in Turin's Pala
Alpitour with the semifinals.
29/09/2018
Poland face USA in path to defend title
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Defending champions Poland need to
get past USA in the semifinals of the 2018 FIVB World Championship to
stay on track for a repeat of their 2014 triumph. USA, who have a single
world title to their name, from 1986, have not been in a medals round
since 1994.
29/09/2018
Brazil aim for sixth world final, Serbia for second
Turin, Italy, September 29, 2018 - Brazil meet Serbia in the first
semifinal of the 2018 FIVB World Championship, as the reigning Olympic
champions go for their fifth straight and sixth overall final of a World
Championship. Serbia will be aiming at their second appearance in a
final, after 1998.
29/09/2018
The momentum of the match changed early - Heynen
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - It's never easy to celebrate when
surrounded by a melancholy atmosphere: the Poles chose a low profile on
Pala Alpitour's court as the Italian rivals said goodbye to their fans
after being eliminated. For Poland it's already time for short-term
plans: there is a semifinal to play on Saturday night against the USA.
28/09/2018
Poland take last ticket to Men's World Championship semifinals
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - Defending champions Poland never left
in any doubt who the boss was, promptly took the first set to seal
their 2018 FIVB World Championship semifinal ticket and knock out hosts
Italy - despite eventually losing the match.
28/09/2018
All remaining teams are potential world champions - William Arjona
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - After Wednesday's comeback against
Russia, Brazil didn't want to stop: another big victory over USA lauched
the Selecao as a potential favorite for the title, as Team USA faced
their first defeat in the entire tournament.
28/09/2018
Evandro shines in battle of backups
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - With both teams giving court time to
their subs and resting key player ahead of Saturday's semifinals, Brazil
shut out USA 3-0 (25-20, 25-18, 25-19) to finish top of their pool in
Round 3 of the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship.
28/09/2018
Three down, one to go for Men's World Championship semifinals
Turin, Italy, September 27, 2018 - Serbia, USA and Brazil have all
qualified for the semifinals of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship
with a day to spare in Round 3 pool play - leaving one last spot to be
decided on Friday between hosts Italy and defending champions Poland.
28/09/2018
Brazil meet USA to determine first place in pool
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - Brazil and USA clash Friday evening
to decide who finishes first and who second in their 3rd Round pool at
the 2018 FIVB World Championship. Both are already qualified to
Saturday's semifinals, but the result will determine the pairings of
these semifinals. With both teams on 1-1 records in the pool, it is a
straightforward matter of winning the game to finish first.
28/09/2018
Poland and Italy clash for last semifinals ticket
Turin, Italy, September 28, 2018 - Poland and Italy wrap up pool play in
Round 3 of the 2018 FIVB World Championship with what could turn out to
be a thriller to decide the last remaining ticket for Saturday's
semifinals. To qualify, the hosts need to win in straight sets and
concede 60 points or less (or finish with 15-point difference). For
Poland, one set is sufficient to qualify and join Serbia who have
already advanced from the pool.
27/09/2018
Kurek: "It's not done yet"
Turin, Italy, September 27, 2018 - Paradoxally, after a big victory,
3-0, Poland are still suffering and Serbia are celebrating: Nikola
Grbic's men will now face USA or Brazil in the semifinals, while Vital
Heynen's group still has to face Italy and win at least a set, or score
more than 60 total points, to go to the next round.
27/09/2018
Kubiak shines but Serbia celebrate, and Italy need a miracle
Turin, Italy, September 27, 2018 - All Serbia needed was one set against
Poland to advance to Saturday's semifinals of the 2018 FIVB Men's World
Championship. And they blew one set point in the first and two in the
second, as defending champions Poland swept the Balkan side 3-0 (28-26,
28-26, 25-22) in a dramatic and intense game at the Pala Alpitour here.
27/09/2018
We want to keep it this way - Russel
Turin, Italy, September 27, 2018 - Team USA knew they would need wings
to get past the massive Russian block: therefore it's no surprise that
the big win they achieved in straight sets against Russia saw Taylor
Sander and Aaron Russell as the protagonists. On the other side of the
net, the reigning European champions are eliminated from the competition
and will need to regroup on the road to Tokyo 2020.
27/09/2018
Sander above the wall as Russia are kicked out
Turin, Italy, September 27, 2018 - USA and Brazil claimed the first two
tickets to the semifinals of the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship,
after a clean sweep by USA of Russia 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-23) here
Thursday evening.
27/09/2018
Men's World Championship Final Six off to cracking start in Turin
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - A nail-biting Brazil comeback over
Russia masterminded by coach Renan Dal Zotto and executed by setter
William Arjona, plus a clean sweep by Serbia that stunned hosts Italy,
got the 2018 FIVB World Championship Final Six off to an amazing start,
Wednesday night here in the capital of Piedmont.
27/09/2018
Serbia seek one set from Poland to make semifinals
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - Serbia meet defending champions
Poland Thursday, seeking one set that will see them through to
Saturday's semifinals of the 2018 FIVB World Championship. That would
leave Poland and hosts Italy to decide the other ticket of this pool
when they clash on Friday.
27/09/2018
Russia in must-win situation against USA
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - After blowing a two-set lead and
losing in dramatic fashion to Brazil on the opening day of the 2018 FIVB
World Championship final round, Russia find themselves in a must-win
situation when they face USA Thursday. The two sides meet for the second
time in this World Championship, after a first-round American win in
four sets.
26/09/2018
The will to fight for every ball makes nights like this possible - Grbic
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - The Serbs attributed their sweep of Italy
on their team fighting spirit, while disappointed Italians admitted
their opponents' perfect game and tried to focus on regrouping for their
next match on Friday. Here's the latest from the Mixed Zone:
26/09/2018
Ivovic with the ace as Serbia keep the pace
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - A shocking start for Italy as the hosts of the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship Final Six were hammered by the veteran outside hitter of Serbia Marko Ivovic in a clear 3-0 (25-15, 25-20, 25-18), despite 11,700 warm and enthusiastic fans on their side.
26/09/2018
William: Too much to handle...
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - Brazil setter William Arjona, key to
turning the game around for an amazing comeback win over Russia was
swamped by the media in the Mixed Zone of Turin's Pala Alpitour for his
role in the match - while at the other end, Russia coach Sergei
Shliapnikov had to deeply analyse what went wrong.
26/09/2018
Brazil block Russia as William leads astonishing comeback
Turin, Italy, September 26, 2018 - A fresh start with heavy points at stake, a clash of superstars that gave the fans in Turin a significant taste of the Final Six: Brazil and Russia opened the last FIVB World Championship round in a very intense challenge, decided at the tie break, 3-2 (20-25, 21-25, 25-22, 25-23,
15-12) for the Rio 2016 Olympic champions.
25/09/2018
Coaches agree: The best teams are in the World Championship Final Six
Turin, Italy, September 25, 2018 - Coaches, team captains and
journalists got together today in Turin for a Media Meeting, ahead of
the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship Final Six, starting Wednesday
here and featuring the six teams that emerged from the previous two
rounds of play in cities across Italy and Bulgaria.
25/09/2018
Italy host Serbia in bid to beat head-to-head odds
Turin, Italy, September 25, 2018 - Co-hosts and three-time world
champions Italy entertain Serbia, Wednesday night at Turin's sold-out
Pala Alpitour, as the Final Six of the 2018 FIVB World Championship
heats up.
25/09/2018
Brazil and Russia in rematch of 1982 and 2002 finals
Turin, Italy, September 25, 2018 - Rio 2016 Olympic champions Brazil and
reigning European champions Russia open the Final Six of the 2018 FIVB
Men's World Championship, Wednesday at the Pala Alpitour in Turin, as
the top six teams in the world battle it out for the ultimate prize in
international volleyball.
24/09/2018
Draw maps out third round of Men's World Championship
Turin, Italy, September 24, 2018 - Brazil, USA and Russia will play in Pool I and Italy, Poland and Serbia will play in Pool J after a drawing of lots ceremony for the 3rd Round of the FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship was held in Turin on Monday.
23/09/2018
Russia, Poland complete World Championship final six line-up
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 23, 2018 – Russia and Poland are the last two teams to advance to the third round of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship after the matches on Sunday.
23/09/2018
Gianlorenzo Blengini : "This victory showed that I can count on all my players"
Milan, Italy, September 23, 2018 – Italy beat the Netherlands 3-1 on Sunday to secure their seventh victory in eight matches this far and get an extra boost of confidence ahead of the Final Six coming up in Turin.
23/09/2018
Renan Dal Zotto: "It is good to know that everybody in our team is ready to fight"
Bologna, Italy, September 23, 2018 - Brazil came back from 0-2 to 3-2 in their last match in Pool F at the FIVB Men’s World Championship. The reigning Olympic champions edged the team of Belgium on Sunday and on Monday will travel to Turin, in order to prepare for the final and most important phase of the tournament.
23/09/2018
Antiga: “It’s time to analyse the mistakes”
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – Bulgaria’s end to the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship was bitter as the co-hosts lost 3-2 (25-19, 25-14, 21-25, 19-25, 15-10) to Canada failing to get revenge for the five-setter dropped to Poland four years ago.
23/09/2018
Randazzo leads Italy in come-from-behind victory over Netherlands
Milan, Italy, September 23, 2018 – The match between Italy and the Netherlands closed the programme of Pool E in Milan. The hosts claimed a 3-1 victory (16-25, 25-20, 27-25, 25-15) much to the delight of the 12,700 fans in attendance. With a truly spectacular performance, spiker Luigi Randazzo was the man of the match as he scored 23 points to top the charts followed by a convincing Gabriele Nelli with 19. Thijs ter Horst and Michael Parkinson top scored for the Netherlands with 15 and 12 points, respectively.
23/09/2018
A bitter end for co-hosts Bulgaria as Lions drop a five-setter to Canada
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – Bulgaria’s end to the 2018 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship was bitter as co-hosts lost 3-2 (25-19, 25-14, 21-25, 19-25, 15-10) to Canada failing to get a revenge for the dropped five-setter four years ago in Poland. The Lions fell short in their attempt for a first comeback from two sets down at a World Championship since 2006.
23/09/2018
Outstanding Evandro takes Brazil to 3-2 come-from-behind victory over Belgium
Bologna, Italy, September 23, 2018 - As if it was a big final, but ‘only’ counting for Pool F of the second round in the FIVB Men’s World Championship, PalaDozza in Bologna hosted the last match in the group – the much anticipated clash featuring Belgium vs. Brazil. As many as 5,200 spectators watched this matchup and confirmed Bologna’s status as a city that loves volleyball.
23/09/2018
Vital Heynen: We were amazing!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – Poland gets the last ticket for the Finals at the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship and will have the opportunity to defend the title in Turin! The current champions overpowered Serbia in a straight-set win 3-0 (25-17, 25-16, 25-14) and topped the standing in Pool H! Polish victory №100 in the history of this major volleyball event left France outside the board for a spot in the third round.
23/09/2018
The return of the Champion! Poland gets the last ticket for Turin!
Poland gets the last ticket for the Finals at the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship and will have the opportunity to defend the title in Turin! The current champions overpowered Serbia in a straight-set win 3-0 (25-17, 25-16, 25-14) and topped the standing in Pool H! Polish victory №100 in the history of this major volleyball event left France outside the board for a spot in the third round.
23/09/2018
Lincoln Williams: "We fought back in every match at the World Championship, but we can do better and we will"
Bologna, Italy, September 23, 2018 - Australia stunned Slovenia in their last match at the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2018, claiming a 3-2 victory, showing that they are able to emerge victorious in a game of nerves and with a constant exchange in the lead.
23/09/2018
Sergei Shliapnikov: “We wanted to win and we achieved our goal”
Milan, Italy, September 23, 2018 – Russia comfortably routed Finland 3-0 on Sunday in Milan to secure their participation in the Final Six in Turin.
23/09/2018
Luke Smith leads Australia to 3-2 win over Slovenia, Volleyroos leave the World Championship on a positive note
Bologna, Italy, September 23, 2018 – In their last match at this edition of the FIVB Men’s World Championship, Australia, who back in Poland 2014 finished the tournament in 15th place, claimed a hard-fought 3-2 (23-25, 25-20, 19-25, 25-22, 15-11) victory over the team of Slovenia and leave the tournament on a positive note. Luke Smith (21 points) was the player who contributed most to this victory, taking the initiative in important moments and showing the world that the future for Australian volleyball is bright.
23/09/2018
Toniutti: The only thing that we can do is to cross our fingers and to support Serbia
Varna, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – France achieved fifth win and still has a chance to qualify for the Finals at the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship! “Les Bleus” overpowered Argentina 3-1 (25-16, 25-20, 26-28, 25-19) and rose to the second place in Pool H with 18 points, before the last match in the Palace of Culture and Sports between Poland and Serbia.
23/09/2018
Poletaev spearheads Russian victory over Finland to secure ticket to Final Six
Milan, Italy, September 23, 2018 – Russia and Finland opened the programme of the last day of competition at the Forum di Assago in Milan, with Russia, still unbeaten in the second round, delivering an exceptional performance against the underdogs from Finland to claim a 3-0 (25-17, 25-19, 25-22) victory to qualify for the Final Six in Turin.
23/09/2018
John Speraw: “It’s always hard against Iran but today it was surprisingly easy”
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – Despite playing with backups USA won for the eighth time in a row completing its second perfect round. The Americans managed a 3-0 (25-23, 26-24, 26-24) victory over Iran in three tightly contested sets.
23/09/2018
USA backups secure a shutout against Iran
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – Despite playing with backups USA won for the eighth time in a row completing its second perfect round. The Americans managed a 3-0 (25-23, 26-24, 26-24) victory over Iran in three tightly contested sets.
23/09/2018
Show must go on! France overpowers Argentina and still has a chance to qualify for the finals!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 – France achieved fifth win and still has a chance to qualify for the Finals at the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship! “Les Bleus” overpowered Argentina 3-1 (25-16, 25-20, 26-28, 25-19) and rose to the second place in Pool H with 18 points, before the last match in the Palace of Culture and Sports between Poland and Serbia.
23/09/2018
Team spirit: Volleyroos warm up with cricket!
Bologna, Italy, September 23, 2018 - There are many ways to warm up before a volleyball match and it is obviously important to ‘warm up’ not only the body, but the spirit too. This is what Team Australia have been trying to do before their Pool F matches at the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2018.
23/09/2018
David Smith with a bunch of new friends in Sofia
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 23, 2018 - David Smith’s campaign at the 2018 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship has been a hit on and off the court. Along with being instrumental in USA winning all of the seven games played, the 33-year old has also made a bunch of new friends.
23/09/2018
Sergei Shliapnikov : "There was a lot of tension before this match"
Milan, Italy, September 22, 2018 – Italy lost to Russia 2-3 on Saturday in Milan before 13,000 fans but the co-hosts were nevertheless able to secure their spot in the Final Six of the Men’s World Championship coming up next week in Turin.
23/09/2018
Russia edge Italy at tiebreak, yet Azzurri qualify for Final Six
Milan, Italy, September 22, 2018 – The ‘Clash of the Titans’ featuring Italy and Russia was the major highlight of the second competition day in Milan. The support of as many as 13,000 fans was not enough for the hosts to add a seventh straight victory to their tally as Russia snatched the win 3-2 (19-25, 25-18, 25-21, 19-25, 15-11). Maxim Mikhaylov and Dmitriy Muserskiy with 18 and 15 points were too much to stand for the co-hosts of the tournament who responded with 21 and 16 points by their star players, Ivan Zaytsev and Osmany Juantorena.
22/09/2018
USA, Brazil, Serbia, Italy snatch spots in World Championship final six
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 22, 2018 – USA, Brazil, Serbia and Italy became the first four teams to book their tickets to Turin for the third stage of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
22/09/2018
Laurent Tillie: We never quit, we never give up!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 – France got back to winning ways after beating Poland 3-1 (25-15, 25-18, 23-25, 25-18) in Pool H of the 2018 Men’s Volleyball World Championship. With this loss the current world champions move down to second place in the standings while today’s winner maintains third.
22/09/2018
Bruno Rezende: "We dream to play in the Final of this FIVB Men’s World Championship"
Bologna, Italy, September 22, 2018 - Brazil booked their ticket to the Final Six of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as on Saturday they stormed to a 3-0 victory over Slovenia. The players coached by Renan Dal Zotto did not leave any chances to their opponents and despite Slovenia’s attempts to react, Tine Urnaut and his teammates could not find a proper response to the strong performance on the service line by their opponents.
22/09/2018
Valentin Bratoev: “The Americans were like Monstars from Space Jam, we didn’t have Buggs Bunny and Michael Jordan"
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 – USA qualified for the third round of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship with an emphatic 3-0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-18) win over co-hosts Bulgaria to ensure the top spot in Pool G.
22/09/2018
USA roll into third round with a straight-sets defeat of Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 – USA remain unbeaten after demolishing co-hosts Bulgaria 3-0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-18) to ensure the top spot in Pool G. While The Lions suffered their third defeat of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship to go on the brink of elimination.
22/09/2018
Isac and Douglas stand out as Brazil ‘fly’ to Final Six after 3-0 victory over Slovenia
Bologna, Italy, September 22, 2018 - More than 5,000 fans enjoyed the show during the second match of the day in Pool F at PalaDozza in Bologna – and much to the delight of the Brazilian fans, their favourites delivered a great 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-16) victory over Slovenia. This way the reigning Olympic champions booked their ticket to the Final Six of the FIVB Men’s World Championship coming up next week in Turin. Both teams showed great skills, but to highlight the show in the second set the players on the court amazed the audience by scoring ace after ace.
22/09/2018
Italian Federation pay tribute to late volleyball star Vigor Bovolenta
Milan, Italy, September 22, 2018 – A short but very touching ceremony took place on Saturday night at Forum di Assago in Milan shortly before the start of the Pool E big match between Italy and Russia.
22/09/2018
“The Volleyball King” Earvin Ngapeth leads France to a remarkable win against Poland
Varna, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 - Volleyball has a King and his name is Earvin Ngapeth! The French outside-spiker led his team to a remarkable win against Poland 3-1 (25-15, 25-18, 23-25, 25-18) in Pool H at the 2018 FIVB World Championship!
22/09/2018
Sam Deroo: "I am happy because we fought back"
Bologna, Italy, September 22, 2018 - The Red Dragons from Belgium took an all-important 3-0 win in Pool F on Saturday, being better than the Australian team and coming back in the first two sets after being down in the score. Sam Deroo (23 points) and Igor Grobelny (18 points) showed great skills and leadership spirit, while for the Australians, who eventually could not take their opportunities, captain Paul Carroll (16 points) was the most prolific player.
22/09/2018
John Gordon Perrin: We did very well on spike
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 – Canada won for the first time in a week beating Iran 3-2 (25-20, 20-25, 25-15, 23-25, 15-12) in a Pool G match. John Gordon Perrin scored 28 points for the victory that eliminated both teams from the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
22/09/2018
Nimir: "This victory confirms that the Netherlands are back among the top teams in the world"
Milan, Italy, September 22, 2018 – On Saturday, the Netherlands beat Finland 3-1 (25-19, 23-25, 25-16, 25-13) to improve their record to five wins and two losses in Pool E in Milan.
22/09/2018
Nimir Abdel-Aziz secures fifth victory for the Netherlands in hard-fought matchup with Finland
Milan, Italy, September 22, 2018 – The second day of Pool E matches at the Forum di Assago in Milan started with the Netherlands and Finland delivering a real show for a sell-out crowd. At the end of an incredible two-hour game, the Netherlands claimed a 3-1 victory (25-19, 23-25, 25-16, 25-13). Man of the match was spiker Nimir Abdel-Aziz who scored 22 times for the Netherlands, while opposite Urpo Sivula set the pace for Finland with 23 points.
22/09/2018
Canada ends skid eliminating Iran from the World Championship
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 – Canada ended a three-games losing skid beating Iran 3-2 (25-20, 20-25, 25-15, 23-25, 15-12) in a two hours and 7 minutes five-set thriller. The results eliminated Asians from the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship while Canada is still in the running for the second place in Pool G.
22/09/2018
Nemanja Petric: It probably looks like it was an easy game but it was not for sure
Varna, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 - Serbia achieved their sixth consecutive win at the 2018 FIVB World Championship after beating Argentina in straight sets 3-0 (25-18, 25-22, 25-22) in Pool H. Thus the Balkans keep their chances to top the standings. They might do it as early as tonight but it depends on the result of the second game for today Poland – France.
22/09/2018
Grobelny and Deroo steal the show as Red Dragons beat Australia 3-0
Bologna, Italy, September 22, 2018 - In a sold-out PalaDozza in Bologna Australia and Belgium delivered a real show to entertain the fans, who came in large numbers to watch elite volleyball on Saturday afternoon. However, the winner is only one and the Red Dragons were the ones to celebrate in the end 3-0 (28-26, 28-26, 25-20). The ‘men of the match’ were Igor Grobelny and Sam Deroo, who, taking the initiative in the most important moments of the match and being fully focused, scored point after point.
22/09/2018
Serbian power! Balkans obtain their sixth win in a row at the World Championship
Varna, Bulgaria, September 22, 2018 - Serbia continued with their brilliant performance and achieved sixth win in a row at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The Balkans overpowered Argentina in straight-sets 3-0 (25-18, 25-22, 25-22) in the Palace of Culture and Sports. With this victory Serbia topped the Pool H with 17 points before the match of the second placed team Poland against France later today.
22/09/2018
Pallavicini – A ‘small’ place that unites people from around the world
Bologna, Italy, September 22, 2018 - The power of volleyball does not come to the fore only with the thunderous spikes killed by the world’s best players, but also in the ability to unite people. The FIVB Men’s World Championship 2018 has shown once again that volleyball can bring together people from different places, different cultures, and different backgrounds.
21/09/2018
Thrilling five-setters in Varna highlight start of World Championship’s second round
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 21, 2018 – Varna’s Palace of Culture and Sports was the arena of huge excitement on the first competition day of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship’s second round, as two thrilling five-setters highlighted the race to the final six spots.
21/09/2018
Massimo Colaci : "We played a good game, but we can play even better"
Milan, Italy, September 21, 2018 – Italy extended their winning streak, much to the delight of a partisan home crowd in Milan, as they beat Finland 3-0 on Friday to make it six wins in a row in the competition they are hosting together with Bulgaria. On Saturday, the Azzurri go for the ‘big match with Russia.
21/09/2018
De Cecco: We went on the field today for fun, to relax, to play our volleyball!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 - Argentina delivered one of the biggest surprises at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! South Americans defeated the unstoppable until this match Polish machine by 3-2 (16-25, 25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 16-14) in the Palace of Culture and Sports!
21/09/2018
Andrea Anastasi: "Slovenia’s serve made it difficult for us"
Bologna, Italy, September 21, 2018 - Slovenia disappointed Belgium once again at this FIVB Men’s World Championship, winning in three straight sets over them and making the situation of the Red Dragons quite difficult in Pool F, as their chances to proceed to the Final Six in Turin got slimmer.
21/09/2018
Zaytsev and Juantorena secure Italy's sixth straight victory
Milan, Italy, September 21, 2018 – The Azzurri claimed their sixth victory in a row at the FIVB Men’s World Championship, this time against Finland, doing so in three straight sets (25-20, 25-18, 25- 16). The result is courtesy of the powerful performance of their star players, captain Ivan Zaytsev and Osmany Juantorena, who scored 14 points each, thus setting on fire the 12,600 fans in attendance at the Assago Forum.
21/09/2018
Skrimov: Once back in Sofia we finally found our serve
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 – Co-hosts Bulgaria beat Iran 3-0 (25-19, 28-26, 26-24) in their opening Pool G match. Lions hit 11 aces with Todor Skrimov accounting for seven setting a new record for a World Championship game.
21/09/2018
Surprise, surprise! Argentina stop Polish machine at the World Championship
Varna, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 - Argentina delivered one of the biggest surprises at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The South Americans defeated the unstoppable Polish machine by 3-2 (16-25, 25-19, 25-23, 23-25, 16-14) in the Palace of Culture and Sports.
21/09/2018
Bulgaria reaches a century mark for wins, Skrimov sets a new record for aces
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 – Bulgaria recorded its win #100 at World Championships as co-hosts romped Iran for a 3-0 (25-19, 28-26, 26-24) win in Pool G. Todor Skrimov set a new mark for aces hitting seven and erased Dutch Reiner Nummerdor from the record books.
21/09/2018
Cebulj and Urnaut turn out to be ‘the nightmare’ for Red Dragons as Slovenia storm to 3-0 victory
Bologna, Italy, September 21, 2018 – In a re-match of the first round of the FIVB Men’s World Championship, Slovenia stunned once again the team of Belgium, seizing a straight 3-0 (28-26, 28-26, 25-19) victory over the Red Dragons. This time the players coached by Slobodan Kovac, who found in Klemen Cebulj (17 points) their top scorer, turned out to be an even tougher opponent for the Belgians. Despite the real battle between both sides during the first two sets, Slovenia showed they deserved more to emerge victorious from this matchup.
21/09/2018
Sergei Shliapnikov: "We are satisfied with this victory"
Milan, Italy, September 21, 2018 – Russia opened the programme of Pool E in Milan with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over the Netherlands to improve their record in the tournament to four wins and two losses.
21/09/2018
Nikola Grbic: We continue to dream!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 - Outstanding Aleksandar Atanasijevic led Serbia to a historical win against France in Pool H at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The Serbian opposite topped the list of the scorers with the incredible 38 points and the Balkans overpowered Laurent Tillie’s players in a dramatic five-set thriller 3-2 (22-25, 26-24, 25-20, 18-25, 18-16).
21/09/2018
Bruno Rezende: "We knew that it was not going to be easy against Australia"
Bologna, Italy, September 21, 2018 - Brazil won 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-15) over Australia in the first match in Pool F, but it wasn’t an easy win for the Olympic champions as the players of Mark Lebedew were breathing down the opponents’ necks in the first two sets to please the spectators in PalaDozza in Bologna with a close game.
21/09/2018
Daniel McDonnell: We studied hard and were well prepared for this match
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 – USA extended their winning streak to six games opening Pool G play with a 3-1 (25-17, 25-14, 21-25, 25-17) success over Canada. The Americans recorded their best start in the history of the championship while Canada lost its third consecutive game to remain bottom of the group.
21/09/2018
Volkov and Mikhaylov lead Russia's show of strength against the Netherlands
Milan, Italy, September 21, 2018 – In the opening match of the second round at the Forum di Assago in Milan, the reigning European champions from Russia needed only three sets to rout the Netherlands (25-17, 25-16, 25-21). Dmitry Volkov and Maxim Mikhaylov were pivotal to Russia’s victory as they scored 15 and 13 points, respectively.
21/09/2018
Atanasijevic leads Serbia to win against France
Varna, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 - Outstanding Aleksandar Atanasijevic led Serbia to a historical win against France in Pool H at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The Serbian opposite topped the list of the scorers with the incredible 38 points and the Balkans overpowered Laurent Tillie’s players in a dramatic five-set thriller 3-2 (22-25, 26-24, 25-20, 18-25, 18-16) in the Palace of Culture and Sports. This is a first Serbian victory against France in the history of this major volleyball event. Before this match, the French team have won all three meetings versus this opponent (including Yugoslavia and Serbia & Montenegro).
21/09/2018
Douglas and Wallace lead Brazil to first victory in Pool F, leave Australia with no chance to finish first
Bologna, Italy, September 21, 2018 - Brazil started off their journey in Round 2 of the FIVB Men’s World Championship in the best way as on Friday they outclassed the team of Australia 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-15) in Bologna, thus recording their fifth victory in the tournament so far. Wallace De Souza together with Luiz Felipe ‘Lipe’ Fonteles and Douglas Souza did their job right and led the South American team towards the all-important win. The players coached by Renan Dal Zotto collected three important points on the road to Turin.
21/09/2018
Canada’s freefall continues as USA marches to a sixth straight victory
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 21, 2018 – Canada continued its freefall at the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship losing 3-1 (25-17, 25-14, 21-25, 25-17) to USA in the opening match of Pool G. As the championship moved to Sofia the Americans became the first team with six victories at this year’s edition.
21/09/2018
Schedule set for Round 2 of Men's World Championship as fans expect new thrills
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 21, 2018 - Sixteen teams remain in the running, as Round 2 is all set at the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship, promising brand new thrills for fans across cities in Italy and Bulgaria and indeed all over the world as they jostle for position in their bids to make the finals of the FIVB's flagship event.
20/09/2018
Australia, Belgium, Brazil and Slovenia excited to continue their journey in Bologna
Bologna, Italy, September 20, 2018 - Bologna is ready to host the matches from Pool F in the second round of the FIVB Men’s World Championship. On Tuesday the head coaches and the captains of the four teams competing in Bologna – Australia, Belgium, Brazil and Slovenia – shared their expectations and hopes for the upcoming exciting matches. The games, played in Bologna, will be decisive to determine who qualifies for next week’s Final Six in Turin.
20/09/2018
Italy, Netherlands, Russia and Finland are ready for Pool E in Milan
Milan, Italy, September 20, 2018 – Coaches and captain of Italy, Netherlands, Russia and Finland, the four team who will compete in Pool E of FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, issued some statements today during the meeting with local and international media. The show will start tomorrow at 5 pm at Mediolanum Forum in Assago, when Netherlands will face Russia for the first match of the pool.
20/09/2018
Coaches in Sofia: It’s time for high-level volleyball!
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 20, 2018 - The coaches of Bulgaria, Iran, and the USA, who are going to take part in Pool G during the second round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, expect great volleyball in front of the amazing crowd in Sofia! Tomorrow USA will face Canada in the first match at Arena Armeec, whereas co-host Bulgaria will play against Iran.
20/09/2018
Argentina, Poland, France and Serbia expect tough battles in Varna!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 20, 2018 - The four head coaches of the teams who are going to take part in Pool H during the second round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship shared the same opinion about the upcoming battles - the group is really tough and every match will be really difficult! Tomorrow Serbia will face Argentina in the first match at the Palace of the Culture and Sports!
20/09/2018
3rd Round Drawing of Lots Ceremony
Turin, Italy, September 20, 2018 - The Drawing of Lots Ceremony for the 3rd Round of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship co-hosted by Italy and Bulgaria will take place on Monday, September 24 at 11.00 at the official teams' hotel in Turin.
20/09/2018
FIVB Athlete Anti-Doping Programme in full swing at World Championship
Sofia, Bulgaria, September 20, 2018 – Volleyball’s leading male players have been the latest to educate themselves about the FIVB’s Anti-Doping Outreach Programme at the Italy-Bulgaria 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
18/09/2018
Argentina complete puzzle as World Championship heads into Round 2
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 18, 2018 - Argentina claimed the last available spot amongst the world's best 16 teams, after taking two sets from Japan, Tuesday evening in Florence, as Round 1 of the 2018 FIVB Men's World Championship wrapped up across cities in Italy and Bulgaria.
18/09/2018
Blengini: "It was important to win today because of the formula of this tournament"
Florence, Italy, September 18, 2018 – Italy came back from the loss of the first set to edge Slovenia 3-1 and keep a clean record in Pool A where they have recorded five wins in as many matches. Their journey will now continue in Milan.
18/09/2018
Podrascanin: "Tonight we claimed a great win over a Russian team that many regarded as the strongest in the world"
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 - Serbia and Russia, lying in second and third place respectively going into this match, locked horns to determine the final standings in Pool C. With the USA recording five wins in as many matches and 13 points to secure the top spot in the pool, the Balkan team played the reigning European champions – and emerged victorious at the tiebreak. As a result, Serbia will be flying to Varna, Bulgaria, while the men around head coach Sergei Shliapnikov are joining co-hosts Italy in Milan.
18/09/2018
Atanasijevic and Kovacevic help Serbia claim 'Clash of the Titans' with Russia to finish second in Pool C
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 – On Tuesday night, Serbia edged Russia at the tiebreak (25-21, 24-26, 25-17, 22-25, 15-12), boosted by the outstanding performance of their opposite Aleksandar Atanasijevic along with outside hitter Uros Kovacevic, who scored 23 and 21 points respectively. The players around head coach Nikola Grbic ended their journey in Pool C as runners-up to fly to Varna with four wins and 12 points to take into the second round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
18/09/2018
Zaytsev secures fifth straight win for Italy in Pool A
Florence, Italy, September 18, 2018 – Italy completed the first round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship with a perfect record of five wins in as many matches. The fans at Mandela Forum in Florence expected a close fight between Italy and Slovenia but after losing the first set, the hosts were able to pull out a rather comfortable 3-1 victory (23-25, 25-19, 25-13, 25-18).
18/09/2018
Pawel Zatorski: It is always difficult to play against Bulgaria
Varna, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 – Poland finished undefeated in Pool D of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship after beating co-host Bulgaria by 3-1 (25-14, 23-25, 25-22, 25-23) in the last match of the group played in front of about 6000 spectators in the Palace of Culture and Sport. So the current world champions top the standings in the pool while Bulgaria finishes third.
18/09/2018
Toniutti: We stayed together and we were really focused
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 - Earvin Ngapeth led France to a remarkable win against Canada 3-1 (25-22, 25-21, 22-25, 25-17) in front of over 2500 spectators in “Arena Monbat”!
18/09/2018
Co-hosts Bulgaria fall short in comeback bid against world champions Poland
Varna, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 – Bulgaria fell short in their bid to defeat Poland for the tenth time at a World Championship. The Lions lost 1-3 (14-25, 25-23, 22-25, 23-25) in their last Pool D match finishing third while world champions topped the group in Varna with a 100% record.
18/09/2018
Allez Les Bleus! Ngapeth leads France to a remarkable win against Canada!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 - Earvin Ngapeth led France to a remarkable win against Canada 3-1 (25-22, 25-21, 22-25, 25-17) in front of over 2500 spectators in “Arena Monbat”! Both teams delivered a great volleyball spectacle and delighted the crowd in the final match of Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The biggest leader for the Europeans in this battle was Earvin Ngapeth who finished as a top scorer with 22 points, including 3 aces. This victory brought France to the third place in the group and let Canada down to the fourth position.
18/09/2018
Japan win, but Argentina are through to next round
Florence, Italy, September 18, 2018 – Japan and Argentina played for the last ticket to the next round – as Argentina needed to win two sets ‘only’ to make it to the next stage of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship while Japan were vying for a three-point victory to achieve the same feat.
18/09/2018
Nishida: "We played very well as a team"
Florence, Italy, September 18, 2018. Japan claimed a dramatic 3-2 victory in their matchup with Argentina in Florence, but this is not enough for the Asian team to continue their adventure in this year’s World Championship.
18/09/2018
Kolakovic: It was a dramatic and nervous game
Varna, Bulgaria, September 18 - Iran overcame Finland 48 years after both teams met for the first and only time in any major competition. As same as in the distant 1970, when Bulgaria hosted the World Championship again, The Asians won but this time the victory came in 5 sets 3-2 (25-19, 22-25, 23-25). So after this match Finland maintain fourth place in Pool D while Iran will know their standing just after the final group match between Bulgaria and Poland.
18/09/2018
Speraw: "There is a great satisfaction in our team since we ended as the first-ranked team in Pool C"
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 – It had to be a matter of formality and so it was, indeed. USA beat Tunisia 25-12, 25-18, 25-13 to keep first place in Pool C as the men around head coach John Speraw finished their campaign in Bari with a perfect record of five wins in as many matches.
18/09/2018
Iran outlasts Finland in Varna
Varna, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 – Iran beat Finland 3-2 (25-19, 22-25, 23-25, 25-23, 15-12) in an epic duel in Pool D in Varna. The match lasted 140 minutes, just a couple of minutes short of the record for the longest match at an FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship since the introduction of the current scoring system.
18/09/2018
Taylor Sander secures fifth straight victory for USA in dominant display against Tunisia
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 - The team captain of USA, Taylor Sander contributed to an overwhelming 3-0 victory over African champions Tunisia (25-12, 25-18, 25-13) to finish the first round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018 in Bari with a perfect record of five wins in as many matches.
18/09/2018
Bruno Rezende: I want to thank Ruse for the support!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018. Brazil finished the first round of the 2018 FIVB World Championship in the best way possible! The current Olympic champions defeated China in straight-sets 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-17) in “Arena Monbat”.
18/09/2018
Confident Brazil finish the first round in style and top Pool B!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018. Brazil finished the first round of the 2018 FIVB World Championship in the best way possible! The current Olympic champions defeated China in straight-sets 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-17) in “Arena Monbat”. The fourth Brazilian win at the tournament led the South Americans to the first place in Pool B before the final match between Canada and France later today.
18/09/2018
Nikola Grbic – A volleyball legend and source of inspiration for the younger generations
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 – Nikola Grbic spent almost his whole career in Italy and many regard him as one of the best setters in volleyball history. The Serbian volleyball legend, born in 1973, has returned to Italy once again, this time as the head coach of the Serbian national team competing at the 2018 World Championship. Interestingly enough, he contested his last World Championship as a player on Italian soil as well – back in 2010 when Serbia beat Italy in the bronze medal match. Moreover, on that same occasion, he received the award for the ‘Best Setter’ of the competition.
18/09/2018
Brothers Erik and Kawika Shoji reunite to play for USA on the road to Tokyo Olympics
Bari, Italy, September 18, 2018 – Brothers Erik and Kawika Shoji have reunited to play for Team USA after spending the 2017-2018 season on opposite sides of the net. The libero and setter of the United States spent the last club season with Taiwan Excellence Latina and Gi Group Monza in Italy’s first division but are obviously happy to play together again and especially to represent USA at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018.
18/09/2018
Aleksandar Boricic impressed by volleyball city Ruse
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 18, 2018 - CEV President and FIVB Vice President Aleksandar Boricic visited Ruse - one of the Bulgarian host cities of the Men's World Championship. During his stay in Ruse he held a work meeting with the Mayor of the city Plamen Stoilov, the President of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation Dancho Lazarov and the Vice President Lyubomir Ganev.
18/09/2018
Velasco: "A really spectacular match, well played by both teams"
Florence, Italy, September 17, 2018 – On Monday, Argentina edged Slovenia in an epic five-set evening battle at Mandela Forum in Florence.
17/09/2018
Argentina, Japan to clash for last ticket to World Championship Round 2
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 17, 2018 - Argentina handed Slovenia their first defeat in the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship in five dramatic sets, but will still play a decisive game on Tuesday for the last remaining ticket to the next phase of the competition.
17/09/2018
Williams: "We are satisfied with the results we have achieved so far"
Bari, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Lincoln Williams took Australia to the next round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as their 3-1 victory over Tunisia made sure that the Volleyroos will finish fourth in Pool C. Tunisia are still winless and on Tuesday the reigning African champions will contest their last match in the tournament against USA.
17/09/2018
Argentina claim dramatic battle with Slovenia and Italy secure top spot in Pool A
Florence, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Argentina and Slovenia delivered the most dramatic match played at Nelson Mandela Forum this far as Bruno Lima and Cristian Poglajen took turns in leading Argentina to a 3-2 victory (25-18, 22-25, 27-29, 25-17, 15-13). Facundo Conte and Lisandro Zanotti joined forces to score another 24 points for the South Americans.
17/09/2018
Williams takes Australia to second round as Volleyroos defeat Tunisia 3-1
Bari, Italy, September 17, 2018 – On Monday, Australia claimed a ticket to the second round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018 and did so with the help of their opposite Lincoln Alexander Williams, who scored 25 points. After losing the first set, the Volleyroos turned the match around to claim a 3-1 win (16-25, 25-17, 25-19, 25-16) over Tunisia that makes sure Australia will finish fourth in Pool C – meaning they will progress to the next stage of the competition.
17/09/2018
Bruno Rezende: I am really proud of the guys!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 – Brazil is back on the winning way at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The South Americans overpowered Canada 3-1 (25-22, 19-25, 25-23, 25-18) in front of over 2500 spectators in “Arena Monbat” and are back in the game, chasing the first place in Pool B!
17/09/2018
Heynen: We felt the amazing support by the fans again!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 - Poland maintained top spot in Pool D of the 2018 Men’s FIVB World Championship after a 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-22) win over Iran. With the loss the Asians were eliminated from contention for the first place in the final standings which will be decided in the last group match between Bulgaria and Poland on Tuesday evening.
17/09/2018
Poland stays perfect, Iran out of the running for top spot in Pool D
Varna, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 – Poland matched its longest win streak at a World Championship since the turn of the century beating Iran 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-22) to remain the lone unbeaten in Pool D. A series that started in 2014 reached 11 victories in a row for the world champions who still have a work to do to win the group in Varna.
17/09/2018
They are back! Brazil overpower Canada in Pool B
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 – Brazil is back on the winning way at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The South Americans overpowered Canada 3-1 (25-22, 19-25, 25-23, 25-18) in front of over 2500 spectators in “Arena Monbat” and are back in the game, chasing the first place in Pool B! This is the first loss for Canada at the tournament which brought them down to the second place in the standing.
17/09/2018
Shliapnikov: "I am satisfied. Now, we need to remain focused for the match against Serbia"
Bari, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Russia beat Cameroon 3-0 (25-16, 30-28, 25-15) to prepare for the much anticipated matchup with Serbia coming up on Tuesday night that will close the programme of the competition at PalaFlorio in Bari. Cameroon leaves the tournament after playing in a tough pool and having to deal with the injury suffered by their captain Nathan Wounembaina.
17/09/2018
Poletaev leads Russia to 3-0 victory as Cameroon leave the tournament
Bari, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Cameroon did not stand a real chance: after losing to USA on Saturday night and enjoying a rest day, Russia resumed their triumphal march and prevailed 3-0 (25-16, 30-28, 25-15) in their matchup with the reigning African champions. Victor Poletaev, who scored 13 points, Dmitry Volkov and Maxim Mikhaylov with 10 points each secured Russia’s third victory in Pool C. With three wins and nine points to their name, Russia will play Serbia on Tuesday night to define the final standing in the pool.
17/09/2018
Gido Vermeulen: We enjoyed our time in Ruse! Now we are looking forward to the second round!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 - The Netherlands continued with the outstanding performance at the 2018 FIVB World Championship and achieved their fourth consecutive win in “Arena Monbat”! The Hollands beat Egypt 3-1 (25-18, 25-21, 23-25, 25-16) and topped the standings in Pool B with 11 points!
17/09/2018
Niclas Coffigny: We became stronger gaining a priceless experience!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 - Cuba beat 3-1 (25-15, 22-25, 25-21, 25-17) Puerto Rico in the Caribean clash of Pool D at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Thus the Central Americans will finish fifth in the standings while Puerto Rico will remain on the last place.
17/09/2018
Grobelny: "I am happy with my performance and first time in the starting six"
Florence, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Belgium easily routed the Dominican Republic 3-0 on Monday at Mandela Forum in Florence to secure their spot in the second round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018.
17/09/2018
Belgium rout Dominican Republic with subs Tuerlinckx and Grobelny stealing the show
Florence, Italy, September 17, 2018 – On Monday, Belgium’s Red Dragons claimed a compelling 3-0 victory (25-18, 25-13, 25-17) over the Dominican Republic as their blocking performance was just outstanding, with 14 stuffs in the end.
17/09/2018
Cuba beat Puerto Rico to avoid last place finish in Pool D
Varna, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 – It was a matter of pride but Cuba managed to avoid the last place finish in Pool D of the 2018 Men’s FIVB World Championship. The boys in blue beat Puerto Rico 3-1 (25-15, 22-25, 25-21, 25-17) but the score was academic as both teams were eliminated on Sunday from the tournament.
17/09/2018
Flying Dutchmen! The Netherlands eliminate Egypt and top Pool B
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 - The Netherlands continued with the outstanding performance at the 2018 FIVB World Championship and achieved their fourth consecutive win in “Arena Monbat”! The Hollands beat Egypt 3-1 (25-18, 25-21, 23-25, 25-16) and topped the standings in Pool B with 11 points! Egyptians fourth lost eliminated them from the tournament.
17/09/2018
Antonio Giacobbe – A volleyball connection between Italy and Northern Africa
Bari, Italy, September 17, 2018 – Antonio Giacobbe feels at home in Bari. The head coach of Team Tunisia has returned to the city where he spent six years at the helm of the local women’s team – meaning PalaFlorio feels like a second home to him. Born in 1947, Giacobbe has travelled Italy from north to south and back to coach men’s and women’s teams and was at helm of the Italian women’s national team from 1980 to 1985 as well.
17/09/2018
Grbic: "Against Australia we delivered our best performance in this championship this far"
Bari, Italy, September 16, 2018 – Serbia beat Australia 3-1 to cement their second place in Pool C with three wins and one loss – and 10 points. Serbian middle blocker Srecko Lisinac was the best scorer of the match with 18 points.
17/09/2018
Jasper Diefenbach: If you had ever told me we were going to win against Brazil and France, I would have never believed you!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – The Netherlands survived an amazing five-set thriller against France and achieved their third remarkable win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The players coached by Gido Vermeulen defeated the French team by 3-2 (23-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-23, 15-13) in front of over 2000 spectators in “Arena Monbat”!
16/09/2018
Dutch shock world - again, as World Championship provides new thrills
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 16, 2018 - For the second day in a row The Netherlands left the volleyball world in shock, beating France in
five sets 24 hours after they stunned Brazil at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's
World Championship. The Dutch again thrilled the fans in Ruse, as they
came back from two sets down to force a tie-break and then brought it
home on a successful block-touch challenge for an attack by Michael
Parkinson for match point.
16/09/2018
Lisinac and Petric lead Serbia to 3-1 victory over Australia
Bari, Italy, September 16, 2018 – An unstoppable Srecko Lisinac scored 18 points to lead Serbia to their third win in four matches in Pool C of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as they beat Australia 3-1 (25-20, 21-25, 25-17, 25-19). Lisinac shared the role of ‘man of the match’ together with team captain Nemanja Petric, who scored 15 points. Moreover, the Serbian team could count on Marko Podrascanin (13), Marko Ivovic (12) and Aleksandar Atanasijevic (12) in their efforts to edge their opponents.
16/09/2018
Juantorena and Giannelli secure Italy's fourth straight victory to stay in contention for top spot in Pool A
Florence, Italy, September 16, 2018 – It was probably not too hard to predict the winner of the matchup between Italy and the Dominican Republic. The hosts eventually added a fourth victory in a row to their record in Pool A to fight with Slovenia for the top spot on Tuesday. Osmany Juantorena scored 17 points, including four aces as Giannelli orchestrated Italy’s game very well and Ivan Zaytsev helped the team with another 12 points.
16/09/2018
Giannelli: "Fourth victory in a row, we controlled the game from start to end"
Florence, Italy, September 16, 2018 – Italy easily claimed their matchup with the Dominican Republic 3-0 to keep a perfect record in Pool A ahead of the clash with Slovenia where first place will be at stake on Tuesday.
16/09/2018
Nikolay Uchikov: The whole team was extra motivated!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – Bulgaria still have chances to top Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship after beating Cuba in straight sets 3-0 (25-22, 25-16, 25-18) in front of extremely full stands in Palace of Culture and Sport. With this loss the Central Americans can no longer finish among the first four in the pool in order to qualify for the second phase.
16/09/2018
Double shock! After Brazil, the Netherlands surprise France in a five-set thriller!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – The Netherlands survived an amazing five-set thriller against France and achieved their third remarkable win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The players coached by Gido Vermeulen defeated the French team by 3-2 (23-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-23, 15-13) in front of over 2000 spectators in “Arena Monbat”!
16/09/2018
Powerful Bulgaria destroys Cuban hopes
Varna, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – Bulgaria had its most complete performance of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship destroying Cuba 3-0 (25-22, 25-16, 25-18) in Varna. The result eliminated Central Americans from further contention while the co-hosts retained chances to top Pool D.
16/09/2018
Sammelvuo: I love Volleyball!
Finland beat 3-2 (25-19, 25-23, 27-29, 21-25, 15-10) Puerto Rico in the first match ever between both the teams in a world level major tournament. Thus the Finns keep their chances for qualifying for the next phase alive. They might do it as earliest tonight but it depends on the result of the second game for today Cuba – Bulgaria.
16/09/2018
Anastasi: "It's a very important victory because it opens the door to Bologna, which was our goal"
Florence, Italy, September 16, 2018 – On Sunday afternoon, Belgium defeated Japan 3-1, this way virtually securing their spot in the next round of the competition.
16/09/2018
Sander: "This victory confirms our leadership and the self-confidence of this group"
Bari, Italy, September 16, 2018 – After edging Cameroon, the USA improved their record to four wins in a row in Pool C, while waiting for the result of the matchup between Serbia and Australia to follow later on Sunday night in Bari. Matthew Anderson and his teammates remained focussed after the epic victory over Russia the night before to rout Cameroon 3-0.
16/09/2018
Moselhy Ibrahim: We achieved the victory and this is giving us hope for tomorrow
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – Egypt achieved a really important first win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The players coached by Mohamed Moselhy Ibrahim beat China 3-1 (28-26, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21) and ended their longest losing streak at this major volleyball event!
16/09/2018
Anderson and Sander help USA secure victory and cement first place in Pool C
Bari, Italy, September 16, 2018 – With the help of their top players, the United States claimed on Sunday a 3-0 win against Cameroon (25-18, 25-20, 25-14) at PalaFlorio in Bari and cemented their first place in Pool C, even before their last matchup with the still winless Tunisia. Matthew Anderson and Taylor Sander paced Team USA with 9 points each followed by middle blocker Taylor Averill (8). Nevertheless, the top scorer of this match was the opposite hitter of Cameroon, David Patrick Feughouo, who put 10 points to his name.
16/09/2018
Van den Dries steers Red Dragons to 3-1 victory over Japan on the way to second round in Bologna
Florence, Italy, September 16, 2018 – Even though he played for three sets only, Bram Van den Dries top scored with 18 points for Belgium as the Red Dragons beat Japan 3-1 (14-25, 25-23, 25-14, 25-19) on Sunday at Mandela Forum in Florence. This means that Van den Dries has become the tournament’s top scorer for Belgium with 60 points this far. Tomas Rousseaux made up for a shaky start as he scored 15 times to help Belgium virtually secure their spot in the next round of the competition.
16/09/2018
Puerto Rico eliminated after a heartbreaking loss to Finland
Varna, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – Despite a monstrous 37-point performance by Maurice Torres Puerto Rico bowed out of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship. The North Americans lost a 3-2 (25-19, 25-23, 27-29, 21-25, 15-10) heartbreaker in Pool D against Finland. Despite getting its first point of the championship Puerto Rico can no longer finish among the first four in the standings in order to progress to Round 2.
16/09/2018
Egypt beat China for a first World Championship win since 2010!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 – Egypt achieved a really important first win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The players coached by Mohamed Moselhy Ibrahim beat China 3-1 (28-26, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21) and ended their longest losing streak at this major volleyball event. The Egyptians lost their last 12 matches in the World Championship history and did not have a win since 3-0 against Iran in 2010.
16/09/2018
Team captains of Italy and Argentina join special ceremony to commemorate Mandela’s birth anniversary
Florence, Italy, September 16, 2018 – The organisers of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in Florence involved the national teams of Italy and Argentina in a special action to commemorate 100 years since the birth of South Africa’s former leader Nelson Mandela. The stadium where the matches of Pool A are currently taking place bears the name of the late Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
16/09/2018
Volleyball art inspired by the World Championship in Ruse!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 16, 2018 - The Bulgarian host city of Ruse was colored in 3D volleyball pictures for the 2018 FIVB Mens’s World Volleyball Championship.
16/09/2018
Blengini: "We should have been more cynical when we had the chance to secure the victory!"
Florence, Italy, September 15, 2018 – On Saturday night, Italy continued their triumphal march in Pool A as they recorded their third victory in as many matches, this time edging Argentina 3-1.
16/09/2018
Unstoppable Juantorena takes Italy to third straight victory
Florence, Italy, September 15, 2018 - Italy confirmed their leadership in Pool A after securing the third victory in a row in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as they beat Argentina 3-1 (22-25, 25-15, 25-23, 28-26). The hosts have three victories to their name – as many as Slovenia, but Slovenia sit in second place as they ‘only’ won 3-2 against Belgium on Saturday. Italy and Slovenia will most likely clash for the top spot when locking horns on Tuesday. Osmany Juantorena delivered a superb performance with 23 points combined together with 45% perfect reception to become the ‘man of the match’ for the Italians.
16/09/2018
Christenson: "We are happy as we beat the team that many regarded as the best in the world"
Bari, Italy, September 15, 2018 - The race for the top spot in Pool C is getting more and more interesting. After delivering a terrific performance, USA claimed a 3-1 victory over red-hot favourite Russia, much to the delight of a sell-out crowd at PalaFlorio in Bari.
15/09/2018
Dutch stun Brazil and other near-misses as World Championship heats up
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 15, 2018 - More than half a century after they last beat Brazil at a World Championship, the Netherlands have done it again, stunning the Rio 2016 Olympic champions with a breathtaking four-set win that resounded around the globe as the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship begins to heat up.
15/09/2018
Russell and Anderson lead USA to 3-1 victory over red-hot favourite Russia
Bari, Italy, September 15, 2018 – In front of a sell-out crowd at PalaFlorio in Bari, USA beat Russia 3-1 (25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 25-20) to cause a bit of a sensation in Pool C. Three American ‘musketeers’, Aaron Russell (17), Matthew Anderson (15) and Taylor Sander (12), helped by setter Micah Christenson, were pivotal to USA’s victory.
15/09/2018
Van Garderen: Is this really happening?
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 - The Netherlands shocked with the biggest surprise in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! Gido Vermeulen’s players achieved an amazing win against the current Olympic champion Brazil 3-1 (21-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-21) in one of the most interesting matches in “Arena Monbat”.
15/09/2018
Kubiak: We did our job!
Poland topped Pool D of the 2018 Men’s Volleyball World Championship after claiming a 3-1 (25:20, 26:28, 25:16, 25:15) victory against Finland in front of more than 5500 Polish and Finnish fans cheering together in The Palace of Culture and Sport.
15/09/2018
Third straight win for Poland despite a slight hiccup against Finland
Varna, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 – Poland extended its win streak at World Championships to ten games after beating Finland 3-1 (25-20, 26-28, 25-16, 25-15) in Pool D. The win in front of a record 5500 crowd in Varna put 2014 champions safely to Round 2.
15/09/2018
Shock! Netherlands defeat Brazil in spectacular match!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 - The Netherlands shocked with the biggest surprise in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! Gido Vermeulen’s players achieved an amazing win against the current Olympic champion Brazil 3-1 (21-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-21) in one of the most interesting matches in “Arena Monbat”. The Europeans were one set behind but managed to come back for their second win against this opponent in the history of this major volleyball event! The first one happened 52 years ago in Czechoslovakia in 1966!
15/09/2018
Sket leads Slovenian comeback to claim third straight win in Pool A
Florence, Italy, September 15, 2018 – Belgium and Slovenia locked horns for the first time in a major competition doing so in Pool A in Florence. The Red Dragons wasted a 2-0 lead as Slovenia fought back to claim a 3-2 victory (22-25, 21-25, 25-19, 25-23, 15-13) and keep a clean sheet with three wins in as many matches they have played this far at the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
15/09/2018
Grbic: "We took three important points"
Bari, Italy, September 15, 2018 – Serbia raised to the occasion and claimed a 3-1 victory over Tunisia on Saturday afternoon. After losing the first set, Serbia decided to resort to star players Jovovic, Podrascanin, Lisinac and Ivovic, and this move changed the course of the game in their favour.
15/09/2018
Kovac: "It's a real team victory"
Florence, Italy, September 15, 2018 – Slovenia came back from two sets down to edge Belgium 3-2 in an eagerly anticipated European derby at Mandela Forum in Florence on Saturday.
15/09/2018
Seyed: It feels great to beat such a well-prepared team
Varna, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 - Iran achieved their third victory and stayed undefeated in Pool D of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship. The Asians beat Cuba by 3-1 (17-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-19) and secured their place in the second phase of the tournament.
15/09/2018
Antiga: "This win already qualified us for the second round and we are happy with this fact!"
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 - Canada stays undefeated in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The North Americans achieved third win in a row after 3-1 (25-22, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23) against China in “Arena Monbat”.
15/09/2018
Luburic, Kovacevic pace Serbia to 3-1 win over Tunisia as Bongui top-scores with 27 points
Bari, Italy, September 15, 2018 – On Saturday afternoon, Serbia raised to the occasion and claimed a 3-1 victory (20-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-20) against Tunisia, thus putting a bit of pressure on Russia and USA, who were due to play the second match of the day in Pool C. Among the players led by head coach Nikola Grbic, Drazen Luburic and Uros Kovacevic stood out with 16 and 14 points respectively, as Marko Ivovic (11), Srecko Lisinac (9) and Marko Podrascanin (8) contributed to the victory as well.
15/09/2018
Iran stays perfect in Pool D after outlasting brave Cuba
Varna, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 – Iran stayed perfect in Pool after outlasting Cuba for a 3-1 (17-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-19) win. It’s the first time in FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship that the Asians start with three wins from their first three matches. Thus Iran secured a place in Round 2 while Cuba, still without a point, is getting closer to the elimination.
15/09/2018
Canada stays undefeated in Pool B after 3-1 against China!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 15, 2018 - Canada stays undefeated in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! The North Americans achieved third win in a row after 3-1 (25-22, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23) against China in “Arena Monbat” and topped the standings with the maximum 9 points!
14/09/2018
Russia set scoring record as World Championship pools take shape
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 14, 2018 - Volleyball powerhouses and favourites at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship across cities in Italy and Bulgaria all scored wins on Friday, as Round 1 pools began to take shape, with reigning European champions Russia defeating Tunisia for an all-time scoring record.
14/09/2018
Yvan Kody – A busy life between volleyball, academic studies and music
Bari, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Cameroon qualified for the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018 after finishing third in the last edition of the African Championship, where they won bronze as Tunisia and Egypt claimed the top two spots of the podium. Interestingly enough, Cameroon and Tunisia opened the programme of Pool C at PalaFlorio in Bari with an African derby that the ‘Lions’ claimed in three sets, much to the delight of a number of partisan African fans in attendance.
14/09/2018
Mikhaylov: "We took another three important points for the top spot in the pool"
Bari, Italy, September 14, 2018 – In the second match of the third competition day in Bari, Russia routed Tunisia 3-0, as Maxim Mikhaylov and his teammates confirmed their status of top favourites in Pool C.
14/09/2018
Poglajen helps Argentina rout Dominican Republic to get back on track after loss to Belgium
Florence, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Argentina regrouped after their loss to Belgium earlier this week to stun the Dominican Republic 3-0 (26-24, 25-15, 25-15) in an eagerly anticipated match at Nelson Mandela Forum in Florence. Cristian Poglajen was the top scorer with 12 points, and he additionally supported his side with a 65% success rate in reception. Tomas Lopez replaced Facundo Conte from the second half of the second set to record 8 points of his own.
14/09/2018
Nikolay Penchev: We started nervously but fortunately we managed to win in straight sets
Varna, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 – Bulgaria got back to winning ways after achieving a 3-0 (25-16, 25-18, 25-21) victory against Puerto Rico in the second match for today in Pool D of the 2018 Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
14/09/2018
Velasco: "After the first set the match became easier for us."
Florence, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Argentina got back on track after their loss to Belgium earlier this week, as they downed the Dominican Republic in three sets on Friday in Florence.
14/09/2018
Unstoppable Russia rout Tunisia in three sets
Bari, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Maxim Mikhaylov and his teammates routed Tunisia in three sets to confirm their status of top favourites in Pool C. On Friday, Russia beat the reigning African champions 3-0 (25-19, 25-6, 25-19) as Mikhaylov top scored in the match, with “only” 11 points and a 70% success rate in attack, with Egor Kliuka adding 10 points to Russia’s tally.
14/09/2018
Toniutti: It was not easy for us as we were all still thinking about the match against Brazil
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 - Without Earvin Ngapeth, France achieved second win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! Laurent Tillie’s players defeated Egypt 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-16) and topped the standings with 7 points and one match in advance than Canada and Brazil.
14/09/2018
Bulgaria back to winning ways and through to Round 2
Varna, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 – Co-hosts Bulgaria got back to winning ways after beating Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-16, 25-18, 25-21) in Pool D and got through to the second round of the 2018 Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
14/09/2018
No Ngapeth? No problem! Rossard led France to second win in Ruse!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 - Without Earvin Ngapeth, France achieved second win in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB World Championship! Laurent Tillie’s players defeated Egypt 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-16) and topped the standings with 7 points and one match in advance than Canada and Brazil. The most valuable player for the winners was Thibault Rossard who made an incredible match and finished as a top scorer with 13 points.
14/09/2018
Kovac: “We played a good game against a tough opponent"
Florence, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Slovenia secured their second victory in Pool A in Florence as they beat Japan 3-1.
14/09/2018
Tine Urnaut scores 19 times to keep Slovenia atop of Pool A
Florence, Italy, September 14, 2018 - Slovenia claimed their second victory in Pool A to stay in contention for a spot in the next round in what is their maiden appearance at the Men’s World Championship. Their captain Tine Urnaut played an excellent game, scoring 19 points for a 60% success rate in attack. Slovenia scored as many as 13 blocks in their matchup with Japan, with Jan Kozamernik registering 11 points, including four blocks. Japan showed good defence and Yuki Ishikawa with 15 points was the last one to surrender as Slovenia pulled out a 3-1 victory (25-20, 22-25, 25-20, 25-13).
14/09/2018
Lebedew: "We have a great team, I can rely on all of my players"
Bari, Italy, September 14, 2018 – Australia claimed their first victory at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018 as they beat Cameroon 3-1 on Friday at PalaFlorio in Bari. Lincoln Williams helped the Volleyroos celebrate their first success in the tournament with a personal tally of 22 points.
14/09/2018
Williams secures Australia's first victory with personal tally of 22 points
Bari, Italy, September 14, 2018 – On the third competition day at PalaFlorio in Bari, Australia claimed their first victory at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018. Their opposite Lincoln Williams was the main asset for the Volleyroos: he stepped in for team captain Paul Carroll and recorded an impressive tally of 22 points.
14/09/2018
Vermeulen: I’m satisfied not only with the result, but with the way we played as well!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 – The Netherlands achieved its first win at the 2018 FIVB World Championship after 3-1 (25-21, 25-13, 23-25, 25-13) against China in the opening match for today in Pool B.
14/09/2018
Sammelvuo: We achieved our tactical goals!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 – Finland achieved their first win in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship bringing more than 3000 Finnish fans in Palace of Culture and Sport some festive emotions. The Nordic Europeans beat Cuba by 3-1 (25-19, 25-19, 20-25, 25-16) and kept their chances for qualifying to the next round.
14/09/2018
First win for Finland, Cuba still without a point
Varna, Bulgaria, September 14, 2018 – A lot of songs were sang, a lot of beer were drank by the fans in blue and white as Finland celebrated a 3-1 (25-19, 25-19, 20-25, 25-16) win over Cuba in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship.
14/09/2018
Netherlands blocked China for first 3 points at the World Championship
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 – The Netherlands achieved its first win at the 2018 FIVB World Championship after 3-1 (25-21, 25-13, 23-25, 25 ) against China in the opening match for today in Pool B. Gido Vermeulen’s players were amazing near the net and made 16 blocks which led them to a remarkable win. This is a third victory for the Dutch against the Asians in the history of this major volleyball event.
14/09/2018
Zaytsev: “Great game, great supporters!"
Florence, Italy, September 13, 2018 – Italy stormed to a comprehensive 3-0 victory in their matchup with Belgium, thus making amends for the heavy 0-3 loss they suffered to the Red Dragons in the quarterfinals of last year’s European Championship.
13/09/2018
Spectacular Brazil outlast France, Iran stun Bulgaria as World Championship continues to excite
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 13, 2018 - Brazil held off France who
had equalised from two sets down, USA won their second tie-break in as
many days in similar fashion after Australia came back from 0-2 to force
a fifth, and Iran stunned co-hosts Bulgaria in four sets, as the 2018
FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship across cities in Italy and Bulgaria
continued Thursday to thrill fans throughout the world with exhilirating
action and exciting results.
13/09/2018
Lipe: We did not win anything - the championship is not finished!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 - The clash of titans between Brazil and France turned in a real masterpiece and left more than 4500 spectators in the Arena Monbat breathless! The current Olympic champions were three points behind in the final tie-break but managed to come back and to achieve a second victory in Pool B 3-2 (25-20, 25-20, 20-25, 23-25, 15-12).
13/09/2018
Milad Ebadipour: The crowd made the game amazing
Varna, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 - Iran surprised co-host Bulgaria and finally won against them at an FIVB Men’s World Championship after two unsuccessful tries in 1970 and 2006. In front of about 5000 spectators the Asian Games champions defeated the Bulgarian team by 3-1 (25-22, 25-20, 22-25, 25-19).
13/09/2018
Petric: "This is an important victory for us"
Bari, Italy, September 13, 2018 – In the late match of the second competition day at PalaFlorio in Bari, Serbia locked horns with Cameroon. Drazen Luburic and Nemanja Petric helped Serbia cruise to a 3-0 victory to get back on track after their 2-3 loss to USA on Wednesday night.
13/09/2018
Luburic and Petric lead Serbia to 3-0 victory over Cameroon
Bari, Italy, September 13, 2018 – In a late match on the second day of the tournament, Cameroon took on Serbia – and the bronze medallists from last year’s European Championship secured a 3-0 victory (30-28, 25-16, 25-17).
13/09/2018
Iran beat co-hosts Bulgaria to top Pool D
Varna, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 – It took Iran three attempts but the Asian Games champions finally managed to overcome Bulgaria at an FIVB Men’s World Championship. In all four sets the home team was trailing at the second technical break. In all four they tried to mount a late comeback but succeeded only in one. A 3-1 (25-22, 25-20, 22-25, 25-19) win got Iran level on points with world champions Poland at the top of Pool D.
13/09/2018
Breathtaking! Brazil back like a phoenix in the tie-break to win clash of titans
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 - Full hall, amazing rallies and great volleyball! The clash of titans between Brazil and France turned in a real masterpiece and left more than 4500 spectators in the Monbat Arena breathless. The current Olympic champions were three points behind in the final tie-break but managed to come back and to achieve a second victory in Pool B 3-2 (25-20, 25-20, 20-25, 23-25, 15-12).
13/09/2018
Zaytsev scores 20 times to lead Italy to 3-0 victory over Red Dragons
Florence, Italy, September 13, 2018 - There were high expectations at Florence’s Mandela Forum for the match featuring hosts Italy and Belgium’s Red Dragons. Italy had lost 0-3 to Belgium in the quarterfinals of the 2017 European Championship and therefore they wanted to make amends for that setback. Ivan Zaytsev scored 20 points (15 spikes and 5 blocks) to lead Italy to a 3-0 victory (25-20, 25-17, 25-16), with setter Simone Giannelli showing glimpses of his class as well despite his young age. The Italian middle blockers were unstoppable as well.
13/09/2018
Lebedew: "The point we claimed today was crucial to stay in the race for a top-four spot"
Bari, Italy, September 13, 2018 - The first clash of the second day of the tournament in Bari delivered an intriguing game, with Australia mounting a comeback from two sets down before USA pulled out their second 3-2 victory in as many matches they have contested at PalaFlorio this far.
13/09/2018
USA resist Australian comeback as Anderson, Sander seal another 3-2 victory
Bari, Italy, September 13, 2018 – Team USA claimed on Thursday their second 3-2 victory (25-23, 25-20, 22-25, 23-25, 15-10) in as many matches they have contested in Pool C of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship this far. Matthew Anderson top scored with 20 points for USA, as the team coached by John Speraw had to stand the furious comeback mounted by Australia, who came back from two sets down.
13/09/2018
Canadians: We scored a second victory at this world championship and that is the most important thing!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 - Canada shut out Egypt in another straight-set 3-0 (27-25, 30-28, 25-19) in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship!
13/09/2018
Nakagaichi: “We are very happy!”
Florence, Italy, September 13, 2018 - Japan got back on track in their second match of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. The players of coach Nakagaichi defeated the Dominican Republic 3-0 to improve their win-loss record in Pool A to 1-1.
13/09/2018
Japan get back on track against Dominican Republic
Florence, Italy, September 13, 2018 - Japan celebrated a comprehensive victory in the second match of their World Championship campaign. The players of coach Yuichi Nakagaichi comfortably routed the Dominican Republic in three sets thanks to a good performance from Issei Otake and Yuki Ishikawa. The Dominican Republic struggled to cope with the fast game of the Japanese team – and recorded their second loss in as many matches in Pool A.
13/09/2018
Aleksander Sliwka: We were tactically prepared
Varna, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 – Poland won their second game in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. The current champions needed 76 minutes to defeat Puerto Rico by 3-0 (25-14, 25-12, 25-15).
13/09/2018
Poland make quick work of Puerto Rico for their second win in Pool D
Varna, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 – Poland became the first team with two wins in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship. Despite missing their two highest scorers from the victory against Cuba the world champions made a quick work of Puerto Rico for a 3-0 (25-14, 25-12, 25-15) success.
13/09/2018
Team Russia enjoy visit to Old Town, feel special connection with Bari
Bari, Italy, September 13, 2018 – After their comprehensive 3-0 victory over Australia on Wednesday, Russia have been enjoying a day free from competition on Thursday and the gold medal winners from this year’s Volleyball Nations League used it as an opportunity for a sightseeing tour of Bari, with a stop at the iconic Basilica of St. Nicholas.
13/09/2018
Canada shut out Egypt in straight sets in Pool B at the World Championship
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 13, 2018 - Canada shut out Egypt in another straight-set 3-0 (27-25, 30-28, 25-19) in Pool B at the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship! The third match between these two teams in the history of this major volleyball event turned into a great battle with a lot of long rallies! In the end of each set however, the North Americans were more confident and achieved a second victory in a row in “Arena Monbat”.
12/09/2018
USA down Serbia and favourites win as World Championship picks up
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 12, 2018 - USA twice came from behind to beat Serbia 3-2 in the first and so far only five-setter of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball World Championship, while all favourites scored wins (with varying degrees of difficulty) on Wednesday, as the tournament got in full swing today across cities in Italy and Bulgaria.
12/09/2018
Taylor Sander: It was a fierce battle, we are very happy we won it
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 - The third and last match of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in Pool C on Wednesday provided 3,150 fans in attendance at PalaFlorio in Bari with classy volleyball for more than two hours. The United States eventually edged Serbia 3-2 at the end of a thrilling match.
12/09/2018
Anderson and Russell seal USA tiebreak victory over Serbia
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 - The last and third match on schedule for the opening day of action at PalaFlorio in Bari delivered high-level volleyball for more than two hours. The United States eventually edged Serbia 3-2 (15-25, 25-14, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10) at the end of a truly dramatic match where they came back twice from one set down. Matthew Anderson along with his teammate Aaron Russell top scored with 19 points for the United States. On the Serbian side of the net, outside spiker Uros Kovacevic recorded the same number of points while opposite Aleksandar Atanasijevic contributed 14 for Serbia.
12/09/2018
Anastasi: "This was a very tricky match"
Florence, Italy, September 12, 2018 - Belgium were victorious against Argentina as they began their FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship campaign in Pool A in Florence on Wednesday.
12/09/2018
Heynen: The fans were incredible!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 – Poland started their world title defence by winning their opening match in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Coach Vital Heynen's players beat two-time silver medallists Cuba 3-1 (25-18, 25-19, 21-25, 25-14).
12/09/2018
Dal Zotto: We are in good condition and well prepared to play against France!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 - Brazil started the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship with a perfect straight-set win against Egypt 3-0 (25-17, 25-22, 25-20) in the last match for today in Pool B.
12/09/2018
Poland shaky but still too strong for Cuba
Varna, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 – Poland started strong before things got a little dicey. Still the world champions were too strong for Cuba and escaped their opening match in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championships with a 3-1 (25-18, 25-19, 21-25, 25-14) win.
12/09/2018
Perfect straight-set start for Brazil at the World Championship
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 - Brazil started the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship with a perfect straight-set win against Egypt 3-0 (25-17, 25-22, 25-20) in the last match of the day in Pool B.
12/09/2018
Shliapnikov - It was important to win
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 – Russia lived up to expectations as the gold medal winners from the 2018 Volleyball Nations League claimed a 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-16) victory over Australia in the second matchup on schedule for Pool C at PalaFlorio in Bari. The Russians turned out to be too strong even for a very solid Australian team.
12/09/2018
Mikhaylov and Russia sweep aside Australia in three sets
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 - The much-anticipated matchup starring Russia and Australia lived up to all expectations with the Russian side able to storm to a comprehensive 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-16) victory at PalaFlorio in Bari. The impressive middle blocker Dmitriy Muserskiy and opposite Maxim Mikhaylov were pivotal to Russia’s victory as they recorded 13 and 17 points, respectively. Their teammates Dmitry Volkov and Artem Volvich scored 10 and nine points to add to Russia’s tally. Australia put up a fight in the first two sets, with opposite Paul Carroll registering 13 points to his name.
12/09/2018
Kovac: "We enjoyed the game"
Florence, Italy, September 12, 2018 - Slovenia celebrated opening their FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship campaign with a victory against the Dominican Republic in Pool A on Wednesday.
12/09/2018
Antiga: I’m so satisfied with this opening victory!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018. Canada started the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship with a straight-set win 3-0 (25-15, 25-23, 25-18) over the Netherlands in the second match for today in Pool B.
12/09/2018
Kolakovic: We did a really good job!
Varna, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 – Iran started the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship with a straight-set win 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-18) over Puerto Rico in the first match on Wednesday in Pool D.
12/09/2018
African community stands behind Cameroon in Bari
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 – Cameroon caught a flying start to their World Championship campaign at PalaFlorio in Bari as the ‘Lions’ stormed to a 3-0 victory in the African derby that opened the programme of Pool C on Wednesday early afternoon.
12/09/2018
Hoag leads Canada to first ever win against the Netherlands at a World Championship
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 - Nicholas Hoag led Canada in overcoming the Netherlands in straight-sets 3-0 (25-15, 25-23, 25-18) and setting themselves up perfectly for a clash with Egypt on Thursday.
12/09/2018
Slovenia start with a great performance
Florence, Italy, September 12, 2018 - Slovenia started out in Pool A with a great team performance that put a limit to the dreams of the Dominican Republic with a four set victory 3-1 (22-25, 25-13, 25-13, 25-17).
12/09/2018
Iran thoroughly outclass Puerto Rico
Varna, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 – Iran won their opening match in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship convincingly. 77 minutes was all it took for a 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-18) success over Puerto Rico.
12/09/2018
A team's victory for Cameroon captain Nathan Wounembaina
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 - The first of 15 matchups on schedule for Pool C of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in Bari saw Cameroon taking to the court at PalaFlorio to claim a 3-0 win in the African derby with Tunisia.
12/09/2018
Belgium begin path in pool A with solid performance
Florence, Italy, September 12, 2018 - Belgium started out on their path in FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship Pool A with a solid performance. In one hour and 45 minutes of an intense match, they made their mark as contenders for Pool A leadership by defeating Argentina 3-1 (25-19, 25-19, 22-25, 25-19).
12/09/2018
Feughouo, Cameroon dance after claiming African derby with Tunisia
Bari, Italy, September 12, 2018 - The FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship got started at PalaFlorio in Bari with a fascinating dance performed by the men around coach Blaise Mayam as Cameroon celebrated a 3-0 victory (25-20, 28-26, 25-21) over Tunisia in the Pool C opener.
12/09/2018
Tillie: We were very focused and had a perfect game
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 - France started the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the best possible way! In the opening match in Pool B Laurent Tillie’s team achieved a remarkable win against China by 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-17) in the Arena Monbat.
12/09/2018
France start World Championship with remarkable win against China
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 12, 2018 - France started the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the best possible way! In the opening match in Pool B Laurent Tillie’s team achieved a remarkable win against China by 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-17) in “Arena Monbat”.
12/09/2018
Ruse is Volleyball!
Ruse, Bulgaria, September 11, 2018 – “The heart” of Ruse, the Bulgarian city which will host Pool B matches in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018, is beating to the rhythm of volleyball.
11/09/2018
Team Italy join special action to mark 100 years since Mandela's birth
Florence, Italy, September 11, 2018 – The stadium hosting Pool A matches of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2018 in Florence bears the name of former South African leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela. If still alive, Mandela would have turned 100 this year.
11/09/2018
Coaches and captains share feelings as Pool A resumes in Florence
Florence, Italy, September 11, 2018 - Just before the start of Pool A in Florence, these are the words of Italy, Argentina, Belgium, Dominican Republic, Slovenia and Japan captains and coaches, expressed during the Media Meeting held today at Italiana Hotels in Florence.
11/09/2018
Players and coaches due to compete in Bari outline World Championship ambitions
Bari, Italy, September 11, 2018 – There is a lot of anticipation in Bari where a major volleyball competition returns four years after the 2014 Women’s World Championship took place at PalaFlorio.
11/09/2018
Head coaches in Varna: Pool D is tough and full of great teams
Varna, Bulgaria, September 11, 2018 - The head coaches of the six teams in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship in Varna think that this is probably the toughest of all four pools. But for every one of them progressing to the second round is the first goal of the tournament.