After defeating Poland 3-0, Italy will face Bulgaria in the final of the 2025 Volleyball World Championship

27/09/2025 21:59:00 PANDATV

The current champion Italy has impressively earned a place in the final of the 2025 Volleyball World Championship (WCH) after beating Poland – the team ranked number one in the FIVB standings – 3-0 (25-21, 25-22, 25-23) in the semifinal.

The match was predicted to be evenly matched, but Italy showed great composure and toughness during critical moments. In the first set, Poland started well leading 14-10, however, Romanò and Michieletto’s outstanding performance helped Italy come from behind to win 25-21.

In the second set, the contest was fiercely competitive with both teams taking turns leading. Poland’s blocking was more effective, but their service mistakes cost them. Coach De Giorgi’s tactical substitution, bringing Sani in for strategic serving, created a turning point that helped Italy secure a 25-22 win and a 2-0 lead.

The third set witnessed Poland’s determined chase. They quickly built a 4-5 point lead, but Italy persistently closed the gap and overtook them near the end. Michieletto scored the winning point, finishing the set 25-23 and ending the semifinal amid cheers from Italian supporters.

On an individual level, Romanò led Italy’s scoring with 15 points (46.2% attack success rate, 2 blocks, 1 ace). Michieletto also performed excellently with 12 points, while Russo, Bottolo, and Sani contributed significantly. For Poland, Leon scored the highest with 14 points but it was insufficient to turn the tide.

This victory not only reaffirms the reigning champion’s strength but also places Italy in a strong position to successfully defend their title. Their opponent in the final will be the "phenomenon" Bulgaria – the biggest surprise of this year’s competition.

Results of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball World Championship semifinals

13:30, 27/9: Czech Republic 1-3 Bulgaria (semifinal)

17:30, 27/9: Poland 0-3 Italy (semifinal)