Back in 2022, Brazil hurdled past Italy to reach the championship stage. Will history repeat itself for the Brazilians with another shot at the FIVB World Championship crown at stake?
Brazil looks to punch its ticket back to the title round when it battles Italy in the semifinals of the 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championships on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 8:30 p.m. (PH time).
The world no. 2 squad enters the clash with confidence after sweeping France in the quarterfinals, 27-25, 33-31, 25-19, in one of the tournament’s most competitive matches.
[ALSO READ: Brazil eliminates France, heads to FIVB Women’s World Championship semis]
Julia Bergmann set the tone with 17 points, while captain Gabriela “Gabi” Guimaraes chipped in 13.
Middle blockers Diana Alecrim and Julia Kudiess added balance at the net, finishing with 10 points each to round out a well-spread Brazilian attack.
For Brazil, the semifinal marks another chance at a breakthrough in a familiar storyline.
The South American powerhouse has reached the Finals three times in the last six editions, including back-to-back silver-medal finishes in 2006 and 2010 against Russia, and a runner-up finish in 2022 vs. Serbia.
This time, Brazil seeks a repeat of its 2022 triumph over the Italians while carrying the weight of history and momentum.
After cruising through Pool C with a perfect 3-0 record and dispatching the Dominican Republic in the Round of 16, the Brazilians are once again within striking distance of the title match, determined to turn another deep run into gold.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]