Veteran setter Luciano De Cecco showed his leadership and composure in Argentina's comeback win over Finland, guiding the squad in his sixth World Championship appearance at age 38.
Argentina’s legendary setter Luciano De Cecco is proving that age is just a number as he leads his squad in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, marking his sixth consecutive stint on the global stage.
The 38-year-old orchestrator, who tallied 32 excellent sets in Argentina’s thrilling five-set comeback win over Finland, admitted it wasn’t an easy start but credited his team’s resilience for pulling through.
"I think Finland played really well. We put a lot of pressure on us in the first two sets, but we kept playing good, especially on the defense," De Cecco told reporters after the match.
"Going down 0-2, it’s hard to come back and it’s difficult, but we’re happy and we really enjoyed this victory."
Staying in top form
For De Cecco, the key to sustaining peak performance after nearly two decades in the national team is his mindset, shifting from being the team’s star setter to becoming its anchor of experience.
“I think that my mentality is to lead the younger ones and to put my experience and my talent, and my mentality, for the group to try to grow," he said.
"I am one of the last ones, so I try to help these guys and enjoy the game,” De Cecco added.
Luciano De Cecco sets the ball during Argentina's five-set win over Finland in the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
He also took time to highlight the growth of younger setters in the squad, praising Matias Sanchez Pages, who saw action in their World Championship debut.
“The first time is always more difficult. These kinds of games, you try to put everything on the next one to not make the same mistake,” said De Cecco.
“I think the team is good, we have amazing preparation to play here, so we need to try to enjoy in order to win the games.”
One last run
The Argentine court general, though, isn’t shy about his ambition—and that’s to win a world title before hanging up his jersey.
The last time the world no. 8 squad finished with a medal in the World Championship was 43 years ago, back in 1982.
“I want the best for the national team in Argentina. I can play and I can try to help my team and my country to reach the more highest level. If this is the last [tournament], I don’t know, but playing for Argentina is the best experience of my life.”
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With De Cecco’s steady hands and Argentina’s mix of seasoned veterans and rising talents, the South Americans remain a serious podium contender in Manila.
Up next for the Argentians will be South Korea on Tuesday, September 16.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.