The semi-finals of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women`s World Championship delivered a spectacle in Bangkok, Thailand, as Italy extended their phenomenal winning streak to 35 matches with a hard-fought victory over Brazil. In an intense five-set thriller, the reigning Olympic champions demonstrated their unyielding resolve, securing their place in the final against Türkiye and inching closer to an unprecedented triple crown in international volleyball.
Clash of Titans in Thailand
The Huamark Indoor Stadium, buzzing with 6,000 ardent fans, became the arena for a truly historic encounter. Two of the sport`s most formidable forces, Italy and Brazil, engaged in a tactical and physical duel that pushed both teams to their absolute limits. Italy ultimately prevailed with a scoreline of 3-2 (22-25, 25-22, 28-30, 25-22, 15-13), marking their first-ever victory against Brazil in the history of the World Championship. This wasn`t merely a win; it was a statement – a testament to Italy`s current dominance on the global stage.
Italian Grit and Tactical Brilliance
Italy`s triumph was a masterclass in depth and resilience. When star opposite Paola Egonu was substituted during the first set, the team found a new hero in Ekaterina Antropova. Coming off the bench, Antropova delivered a phenomenal performance, leading the Italian scoring with 28 points, comprising 20 kills, six blocks, and two aces. Her immediate impact underscored Italy`s tactical flexibility and the immense talent waiting in reserve. Outside hitter Myriam Sylla also played a pivotal role, contributing 21 points with 19 kills and two blocks. Egonu, returning to close out the decisive tie-breaker, added 11 points, proving that Italy`s success isn`t reliant on a single player, but rather a collective force capable of adapting under pressure. As Antropova herself remarked, “It was an incredible match, fun to watch and to play. It was so hard and just as we expected. I’m proud of the team. We didn’t always show our best game, but still managed to stay there.”
Brazil`s Valiant Effort and Fine Margins
Despite the loss, Brazil showcased immense heart and skill, particularly through their captain, Gabriela ‘Gabi’ Guimarães. Gabi was the match`s top scorer with an astounding 29 points (27 kills, two blocks), leading her team with fierce determination. Opposite Rosamaria Montibeller added 20 points, with middle blockers Diana Alecrim and Júlia Kudiess chipping in 15 and 14 points respectively. Blocking was a significant factor for both sides, with Brazil impressively tallying 22 block points against Italy’s 15. However, the fine margins of elite sport often boil down to execution, and Brazil`s higher number of errors (27 to Italy`s 19) ultimately proved to be their undoing. Gabi eloquently summarized the sentiment, “It’s difficult to lose a match like this, we know it was about the small details. I’m really proud of the team, we fought a lot. Italy are an amazing team and they deserve to be in the final.” Brazil will now regroup to face Japan for the bronze medal.
Chasing a Historic Treble
Italy`s victory sets up a tantalizing final against Türkiye. Undefeated since May 2024, the Italians now stand on the brink of an extraordinary achievement: simultaneously holding the titles of Olympic, Volleyball Nations League, and World Champions. This would be a historic feat, solidifying their status as arguably the most dominant force in contemporary women`s volleyball. Regardless of the final outcome, Italy has already guaranteed their fourth medal at the World Championship, adding to their gold in 2002, silver in 2018, and bronze in 2022. The stage is set for a truly epic conclusion to the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women`s World Championship, with Italy aiming not just for gold, but for an indelible mark in the annals of the sport.
