In the Polish city of Lodz, incredibly tense semi-final matches of the Men's Volleyball Nations League took place, which became a real test for the favorites of the tournament. National teams of Poland and Slovenia, which finished the group stage in the first two positions, unfortunately could not make it to the finals.
Drama in five sets: Poland against France
The first semi-final match between Poland and France was a real thriller for the audience. The Poles, supported by their native stands, had every chance to win, but lost to the French team in a long five-set match. Tie-break score 16:18 was the decisive moment when the French showed incredible resilience and skill.
"We gave all our strength on the court, but this time luck was not on our side. France deserves this victory," said the captain of the Polish national team after the match.
Japan destroys Slovenia: surprise of the tournament
The second semi-final match between Slovenia and Japan became a real sensation. The Slovenians, who were considered clear favorites, could not find an answer to the fast and technical attacks of the Japanese. The score 0:3 (21:25, 25:27, 29:31) speaks for itself - Japan dominated the court from start to finish.
"It was our best match at the tournament. We showed that we can compete with the best teams in the world," said the coach of the Japanese national team.
Final: France vs. Japan
Thus, on Sunday, June 30, in the final of the League of Nations, the national teams of France and Japan will meet. Both teams showed an incredible level of play and are ready to fight for the title.
"We are ready for the final test. Japan is a strong opponent, but we believe in our strength," commented the head coach of the French national team.
Bronze match: Poland vs. Slovenia
Poland and Slovenia, who were the favorites of the tournament, will now compete only for third place. Both teams have something to prove to their fans and, without a doubt, this match promises to be no less exciting.
"We cannot afford another defeat. We will fight to the last," said one of the leaders of the Slovenian national team.
This year's Volleyball Nations League gave us incredible emotions and unexpected results. Can Japan end their triumphant streak with a win in the final? Will France confirm its status as one of the leaders of world volleyball? We will find out the answers to these questions very soon.
Editor: Emilia Morozova
Volleyball
The Ukrainian U-22 national team lost to Turkey at the start of the European ChampionshipVolleyball
Gstaad Elite16: Crucial Preparation for Paris 2024Volleyball
Revolutionary Tech Enhances Fairness at Paris 2024 VolleyballVolleyball
Japan Announces Final Roster for Paris Olympics After Historic Silver in VNL 2024Volleyball
France Triumphs in Volleyball Nations League, Eyes Paris 2024 GloryVolleyball
France back on top: Victory in Volleyball Nations League 2024Volleyball
Iranian Volleyball Faces Crisis: Coach Dismissed After VNL DebacleVolleyball
France and Slovenia advance to the Volleyball Nations League semi-finals after dramatic matchesVolleyball
Japan and Poland Secure Semifinal Spots in Volleyball Nations League 2024Volleyball
Jackie Taylor Honors Late Father by Wearing No. 21 for North Carolina VolleyballVolleyball
Nicola Negro Extends Contract with Gerdau Minas: What's Next for the Champions?Volleyball
LOVB's Ambitious Expansion Plan: Six Teams by 2025, Eight by 2027Volleyball
Finnish talent Santeri Vialimaa joins Lviv Barkom-KazhanaVolleyball
"Ukraine triumphs in the Golden Euroleague: the Candidates' Cup awaits"Volleyball
Volleyball Challenger Cup 2024: Exciting Showdowns Await in Linyi and ManilaVolleyball
German Teams Dominate Messina Futures, Clinch Gold and SilverVolleyball
"Italian women triumph in Thailand: Paola Egonu - MVP of the League of Nations final"Volleyball
Italy and Poland make their way to the semi-finals of the League of Nations VolleyballVolleyball
Japan and Brazil impress: Volleyball Nations League semi-finals promise to be hotVolleyball
Evgeny Kisilyuk: From the bench to the MVP of the Golden EuroleagueVolleyball
Lviv club "Barkom-Kazhany" is preparing for the new season with new recruit Andrii ShvetsVolleyball
Brazil and Canada scored important victories in the Volleyball Nations League: a productive start to the third round