Reigning world champion Italy opened its FIVB title defense with a dominant showing against Algeria in Pool F.
Italy hit the ground running for its title defense at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, besting Algeria in straight sets in Pool F Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, 25-13, 25-22, 25-17.
Leaning heavily on their serving game, the Italians blasted the upset-seeking Algeria, firing seven aces in the three-set affair.
While it was a sweep, Italy looked in peril in set 2 when Algeria held a 21-17 lead late after an attack from Soufiane Hosni.
But the defending champions rode a personal 3-0 run from Roberto Russo, which led to an overall 8-1 finishing kick for a 2-0 advantage, deflating Algeria’s momentum.
In the third set, Algeria was unable to threaten the reigning world champions, with late errors helping seal the final outcome.
Alessandro Michieletto paced Italy with 15 points built off of nine attacks, two blocks, and four aces. Mattia Bottolo added 13 markers as well.
Sidi Dour top scored for Algeria in the losing effort with 11 points.
Italy targets its second win on Tuesday, September 16, against Belgium. Algeria will battle Ukrained in the next game.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.