Finns rally for their first-ever win over France in program history in Pool C of the FIVB Men’s World Championship.
Finland derailed France in a stunning upset in Pool C action in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship after surviving the reigning Olympic champions in five sets, 25-19, 17-25, 29-27, 21-25, 15-9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday.
The Finns had never once beaten France in any match of international volleyball.
After being dragged into the deep end by France into a winner-take-all fifth set, Finland jumped to a 10-3 start after an attack from Petteri Tyynismaa.
Despite France’s best efforts, as they clawed back top get within three, 9-12, the lead proved just big enough for Finland to complete the upset and improve to 1-1 in the pool after relinquishing their first five-setter against Argentina.
The Argentines currently lead the pool with a 2-0 slate.
Joonas Jokela paced the Finns in the emphatic win with 20 points built off of 17 attacks and three aces.
Jean Patry led France in the loss with 23 points.
Finland plays South Korea next in their last game of pool play on Thursday, September 18, at 10:30 a.m. for the chance to make it to the Round of 16.
France, meanwhile, licks their wounds and face Argentina to keep themselves alive in the next round.
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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.