In a pivotal Pool B clash at the 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Phuket, Thailand, the Italian national volleyball team demonstrated why they are reigning Olympic and Volleyball Nations League champions. Facing a determined Belgian squad, Italy secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory (25-16, 25-16, 21-25, 25-18), cementing their status as undefeated pool leaders with a perfect nine points. Belgium, despite their spirited resistance, finished as pool runners-up with a respectable 2-1 record and six points.
The Unstoppable “Block Party”
The match was, for all intents and purposes, an Italian “block party.” While some might view volleyball as a game of high-flying spikes and acrobatic digs, Italy decided to redefine it as a masterclass in aerial denial. They erected an almost impenetrable wall at the net, tallying an astonishing 15 kill blocks. In stark contrast, the Belgians managed a mere two. It seems Italy took the old adage “the best offense is a good defense” quite literally, and then raised it a few feet higher.
Leading this defensive carnival was none other than the sensational **Paola Egonu**. The star opposite proved to be an omnipresent force, contributing four of those crucial blocks on her way to a remarkable 28 points. Not content with just blocking, Egonu also delivered a timely ace, showcasing her all-around brilliance. Complementing her efforts, 21-year-old outside hitter Stella Nervini added 14 points, including two blocks, while middle blocker Sarah Fahr provided the match-winning point with a swift, decisive attack through the middle, ending her day with 11 points.
“We are absolutely happy for this win! We knew that our last game was probably the most difficult one. We knew Belgium was one of the strongest teams we had in pool, so we are very happy that we managed to pull off this win,” Italy’s second opposite, 22-year-old Ekaterina Antropova, shared after the match. “I am very proud of my team. We work a lot and I think we can still improve and show more beautiful volleyball.”
Belgium`s Spirited Stand and Future Prospects
Belgium, often dubbed the “Yellow Tigers,” didn`t simply roll over. They demonstrated grit and determination, particularly in snatching the third set, proving that even a well-oiled Italian machine can momentarily falter. Their serving game, in fact, outshone Italy`s, with Belgium delivering five aces compared to Italy`s three. Setter Charlotte Krenicky contributed two of those aces, trying to inject some much-needed dynamism from the service line.
On the offensive front for Belgium, 22-year-old opposite Pauline Martin was the team`s top scorer with 16 points, while star outside hitter and captain Britt Herbots added another 15 points, trying to navigate Italy`s formidable net defense. Their performance, while not enough to top the pool, was certainly commendable and secured their passage to the eighthfinals, where they will undoubtedly aim to unleash their full potential.
Onward to the Eighthfinals
With both Italy and Belgium now looking towards the eighthfinals, the tournament heats up. Italy`s undefeated run sends a clear message to their competitors: they are a force to be reckoned with, boasting both offensive firepower and a defensive system that can suffocate opponents. For Belgium, their qualification is a testament to their growing prowess on the international stage, demonstrating that they are not just participants, but genuine contenders capable of challenging established powers.
The World Championship in Thailand continues to deliver thrilling volleyball action, with every match bringing new narratives and showcasing the incredible talent within the women`s game. As Italy celebrates their pool dominance, the global volleyball community eagerly anticipates their next display of what Ekaterina Antropova optimistically calls “more beautiful volleyball.”
