In a highly anticipated encounter at the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in Chiba, Japan, Brazil delivered a decisive performance to defeat Poland 3-1. The South American squad secured the victory with set scores of 25-22, 25-21, 21-25, and 25-22, handing Poland only their second loss of the current VNL season.
Brazil`s dominance at the net was a key factor in their success. They significantly outplayed their European rivals in both spiking efficiency and, most notably, blocking. The Brazilian defense proved a formidable barrier, repeatedly frustrating the Polish attack.
The blocking effort was led by a trio of exceptional players. Middle blocker Julia Kudiess, just 22 years old, was a force to be reckoned with, registering an impressive six kill blocks. Her final, spectacular block sealed the match for Brazil. Middle blocker Diana Alecrim added four stuffs, while outside hitter and team captain Gabriela Guimaraes (Gabi) contributed five blocks to the team`s total of 16 kill blocks for the match. This collective net presence created significant difficulties for the Polish offense.
Beyond the block, Brazil`s attack also fired effectively. Gabi showcased her leadership and offensive prowess, leading all scorers with a match-high 24 points on a robust 50% spiking success rate. Fellow outside hitter Julia Bergmann was another primary offensive weapon, contributing 22 points, including two aces. Opposite hitter Tainara Santos rounded out the double-digit scorers for Brazil with 10 points.
For Poland, three players reached double digits in points: opposite Magdalena Stysiak with 15 points, outside hitter Martyna Lukasik with 13, and middle blocker and captain Agnieszka Korneluk with 10. Despite their efforts, they couldn`t overcome Brazil`s superior net play.
Reflecting on the victory, Julia Bergmann commented on the team`s performance following their previous match. “It felt very good, especially after the game yesterday,” she stated. “I think we recovered really well. We played really well today. Of course, we had ups and downs, but it was a great game.”
The result impacts the VNL standings significantly. Brazil currently sits in a strong second place with a 10-1 win-loss record and 28 points. Poland, despite hosting the upcoming Finals in Lodz, now holds an 8-2 record with 24 points, positioning them in fourth place.
Looking ahead, Bergmann expressed optimism for the team`s trajectory. “Of course, we are always going for the first place,” she noted, while acknowledging the team`s ongoing development. “We know we have a lot to learn and a lot to improve, but I think the group is really good. We work hard. Everyone works hard… It’s only the first year of the Olympic cycle, so I am really excited to see what this group can achieve.”
