France defeated Italy in a tense five-set thriller
Friday evening in Łódź was a real test of nerves for volleyball fans. The national teams of Italy and France were the first to enter the Atlas Arena. The Italians, who were considered favourites, were intent on reinforcing their status as one of the main contenders for the title. However, the French had other plans.
"We knew it would be a difficult match, but we are ready for challenges," said the captain of the French national team after the game.
The match started with a confident victory of Italy in the first set - 25:19. But the French quickly regained their balance, winning the second game 25:20. The next two sets also did not leave the spectators indifferent, ending with the advantage of one of the teams by only a few points. In the decisive tie-break, the French managed to take the mountain with a score of 15:11, securing a place in the semi-finals.
Slovenia defeated Argentina in a dramatic five-set battle
The second quarter-final between Slovenia and Argentina did not disappoint either. The Europeans, who won the first stage, were considered favorites, but the Argentinians were not going to give up the victory without a fight.
"It was a real battle and we are proud that we were able to show our character," said one of the players of the Slovenian national team after the game.
After three games, Slovenia trailed 1:2, but managed to equalize in the fourth set, winning it 29:27. In the decisive fifth set, the Slovenians demonstrated their skill, winning 15:7.
The semi-final matches promise to be no less exciting
On Saturday, June 29, two exciting semi-final meetings await us. Poland will meet with France, and Slovenia with Japan. Both matches promise to be intense and unpredictable as all teams aim to win the Nations League title.
Poland, as the host of the tournament, has the advantage of the home court, but the French have already proven that they can defeat even the strongest opponents. On the other hand, Slovenia and Japan have their trump cards, and their meeting promises to be no less interesting.
"It will be a big challenge for us, but we are ready to fight until the end," said the head coach of the Polish national team on the eve of the semi-finals.
It remains only to wait for Saturday's matches, which, without a doubt, will give us even more bright moments and emotions.
Editor: Yana Davidyuk
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