Photo: Getty Images

The final chapters of the race to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics will unfold this week in Ljubljana. From Tuesday to Sunday, the Slovenian capital will be the battleground for five of the six men’s national teams fighting for four Olympic spots in the last week of the Volleyball Nations League 2024 Preliminary Phase.

Italy's Dominance and Near-Certainty

World champions Italy, with 369.30 FIVB World Ranking points, are virtually assured of their place in Paris. They lead the VNL standings with seven wins out of eight matches (21 points). Simone Giannelli and Alessandro Michieletto will spearhead Italy's campaign in Ljubljana, facing Poland, Bulgaria, Slovenia, and Türkiye.

"We're focused on every match, but our eyes are on Paris," said Giannelli.

Slovenia's Historic Opportunity

Slovenia, running second in the Olympic qualification race with 335.05 points, have a historic chance to confirm their first Olympic appearance. Matches against Argentina, Cuba, Italy, and Serbia will be crucial. Tonček Štern, the top scorer of VNL 2024, has been instrumental for Slovenia.

"Playing in front of our home fans gives us an extra boost," Štern commented.

Argentina's Strategic Moves

Tokyo 2020 bronze medalists Argentina hold a relatively secure position with 302.36 points. After their debut against Slovenia, they face Türkiye, Poland, and Bulgaria. With Luciano De Cecco as the best setter, Santiago Danani as the best defender, and Nicolas Zerba as the best blocker, Argentina aims to solidify their spot.

Serbia vs. Cuba: A Pivotal Clash

Separated by less than a point in the World Rankings, Serbia (251.55) and Cuba (250.64) are neck and neck for the fourth Olympic spot. Their duel on Thursday could be decisive, granting the winner a 20-point advantage. Both teams also aim for a spot in the VNL Finals, with Cuba currently eighth and Serbia tenth in the standings.

Poland's Role as Defending Champions

Already qualified for the VNL Finals as hosts, defending champions Poland will play pivotal matches against Italy, Argentina, Serbia, and Cuba. Their performance could influence the final standings significantly.

Underdogs and Outsiders

Bulgaria and Türkiye, ranked 14th and 15th respectively, are unlikely to make it to the Finals and are out of the Olympic race. However, their matches could still impact the dynamics of the tournament.

The third week of the VNL Preliminary Phase also features matches in Manila, where Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Iran, Japan, the Netherlands, and the USA will be in action.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova