The Women`s Volleyball Nations League 2025 continued its preliminary phase in Chiba, Japan, featuring a clash between the Polish national team and Korea. Poland, recognized for their recent success including bronze medals in the last two VNL editions and holding hosting rights for this year`s Finals, entered the match as clear favorites. Their objective was to maintain their commanding position at the top of the VNL table, while Korea sought to improve their difficult campaign record.
The match concluded with Poland securing a 3-1 victory, reflected in the set scores: 18-25, 25-19, 25-14, 28-26. This win elevated Poland`s record to an impressive 8-1 with 24 points, solidifying their status as frontrunners. Conversely, Korea`s record dropped to 1-8 with 4 points, leaving them in 17th place and facing an imminent threat of relegation from the league.
Poland’s middle blocker Magdalena Jurczyk in attack against Korea (as described in the original content).
The contest began with a surprising turn of events. Korea, playing with assertive energy, managed to outplay their highly-ranked opponents in the opening set, taking it convincingly at 25-18. This strong start put the pressure squarely on the Polish side.
However, Poland quickly adjusted and found their rhythm in the subsequent sets. They dominated the second and third frames with clinical efficiency, securing victories at 25-19 and 25-14. This showcased their capability to recover and control the tempo against a determined opposition.
The fourth set provided the most drama. It evolved into a highly competitive battle, pushing both teams to their limits and ultimately going into overtime. Opportunities to clinch the set arose for both sides, leading to tense, extended rallies. The decisive moment came with a powerful block by Poland`s 22-year-old outside hitter, Julita Piasecka, which finally ended the set at 28-26 and sealed the overall 3-1 match win for Poland.
Individual performances were key to the outcome. For Poland, middle blocker Aleksandra Gryka delivered a solid defensive performance, tallying five blocks. Julita Piasecka`s contribution extended beyond the match-point block, as she finished with 15 points, including two aces. Opposite Malwina Smarzek was a significant offensive force, contributing 20 points. Poland`s outside hitter Martyna Lukasik shared the distinction of being the match`s top scorer, registering 21 points.
Matching Lukasik`s scoring output was Korea`s 22-year-old opposite, Seonwoo Lee, also finishing with 21 points. Middle blocker Dahyeon Lee and outside hitter and team captain Sohwi Kang provided valuable support for Korea, each adding 13 points.
Following the match, Malwina Smarzek commented on the team`s performance. She acknowledged the challenges of restarting after a two-week break and the effects of the time zone difference, though she framed them as mere “excuses.” Despite potential imperfections in their play level, she expressed pride in the team`s effort. Smarzek also highlighted Korea`s strong defensive game, noting that her team sometimes struggles against such opponents if they lose patience. She concluded by praising both teams for their efforts.
The victory in Chiba is a crucial step for Poland in their VNL 2025 campaign, reinforcing their position at the top and building momentum as they approach the Finals they will host. For Korea, the match, despite the loss, demonstrated moments of competitive fire, particularly their strong start and the hard-fought fourth set, offering a glimpse of their potential even in a challenging season.
