The 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship is set to kick off in Manila from September 12 to 28, 2025.
Pool A features four squads — Philippines, Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia — playing a single round-robin group stage.
All matches will be staged at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, with the top two teams advancing to the knockout rounds.
Here’s everything you need to know about the four squads in Pool A.
Philippines (Host Nation)
The Philippines makes its World Championship debut right on home soil, becoming only the third nation to host and debut in the same year.
Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni leads Alas Pilipinas Men, hoping to rise quickly on the international stage.
Key players to watch:
Bryan Bagunas – Coming off an ACL injury, Bagunas will be under the spotlight as he returns to anchor the Philippines’ attack. A proven scorer in Taiwan, he’ll be eager to show he can still dominate on the world stage.
Marck Espejo – A longtime national team mainstay, Espejo’s versatility and consistency make him just as crucial. Expected to shoulder the scoring load alongside Bagunas, he remains one of the most reliable point producers for Alas Pilipinas Men.
The home crowd’s energy will be crucial in pushing Alas Men to challenge more experienced Pool A rivals.
[ALSO READ: Bryan Bagunas ready ‘physically and mentally’ for return in FIVB World Championship]
Iran
Iran enters Pool A as the highest-ranked team at world No. 13 and a perennial Asian powerhouse. This will be their 8th World Championship appearance, with a best finish of 6th place in 2014.
[ALSO READ: Alas Pilipinas on collision course against Esmaeilnezhad-led Iran in tough FIVB Worlds schedule]
Key players to watch:
Amin Esmaeilnezhad – A prolific opposite hitter and one of Asia’s most dangerous scorers, Esmaeilnezhad has carried much of Iran’s offensive load in recent years with his heavy swings and ability to score in bunches against elite competition.
Javad Karimi – An award-winning setter and offensive orchestrator, Karimi is known for his quick decision-making and precision ball distribution, making him the key to unlocking Iran’s tall, athletic frontline.
With Italian coach Roberto Piazza at the helm, Iran brings size, depth, and recent success in Asian competitions, making them the on-paper favorites in Pool A.
Egypt
Egypt comes in as Africa's top-ranked team at world No. 23, making their 11th World Championship appearance. They are nine-time African champions, but their best global finish remains 13th in 2010.
Led by Italian coach Marco Bonitta, who guided Italy’s women to a world title in 2002, the Egyptians are expected to be tough opponents in Pool A.
[ALSO READ: Egypt looms as key hurdle for Alas Pilipinas Men in FIVB World Championship]
Key players to watch:
Abdelrahman Elhossiny Eissa – Egypt’s go-to scorer and floor leader, Eissa is known for his athleticism, reliable serve-receive, and ability to finish points under pressure. His all-around play makes him the heartbeat of the Pharaohs’ offense.
Mohamed Masoud – A veteran middle blocker, Masoud brings a strong blocking presence and quick attacking ability at the net. With years of international experience, he provides a steadying force in the front line and anchors Egypt’s defense against world-class opponents.
The Pharaohs aim to finally break through to the knockout stages after years of early exits.
Tunisia
Tunisia is Africa’s most decorated volleyball nation, with 11 African Championship titles and seven Olympic appearances. This marks their 12th World Championship and 7th straight since 2002. Their best finish was 15th place in 2006, but they reached the Round of 16 in 2022.
[ALSO READ: Tunisia faces Alas Pilipinas in FIVB World Championship opener minus star scorer Ben Tara]
Key player to watch:
Hamza Nagga – Known for his power and consistency, Nagga has been the face of Tunisian volleyball for the past decade. He shone at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with his scoring bursts and continues to serve as the team’s top offensive weapon in major tournaments.
Ahmed Kadhi – A seasoned middle blocker, Kadhi anchors Tunisia’s defense with his experience and timing at the net. He complements his blocking with quick-strike attacks in transition, providing balance and leadership on the frontline.
Pool A Match Schedule:
Sept. 12 (Fri), 6:00 PM – Philippines vs Tunisia (Opening Match)
Sept. 14 (Sun), 1:30 PM – Iran vs Egypt
Sept. 16 (Tue), 1:30 PM – Iran vs Tunisia
Sept. 16 (Tue), 5:30 PM – Philippines vs Egypt
Sept. 18 (Thu), 1:30 PM – Egypt vs Tunisia
Sept. 18 (Thu), 5:30 PM – Philippines vs Iran
Only the top two advance to the Round of 16, making every game a virtual do-or-die.
Tickets for the FIVB World Championship is available via www.philippineswch2025.com