World no. 4 USA collides with sixth-ranked Slovenia in a marquee Round of 16 showdown at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
World no. 4 USA looks to keep its momentum rolling when it faces sixth-ranked Slovenia in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on Monday, Sept. 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Americans, perennial contenders and a fan favorite in Manila, breezed through the group stage with convincing wins over Colombia, Portugal, and Cuba.
Team captain Micah Christenson has anchored the charge, steering the squad with steady leadership and precise playmaking as Team USA eye another deep run on the world stage.
Also expected to deliver are spikers Gabi Garcia, Jordan Ewert, and Ethan Champlin.
[ALSO READ: Coach Kiraly banks on depth as Team USA enter FIVB Worlds Round of 16 with perfect record]
Slovenia, meanwhile, has shown flashes of brilliance despite an early stumble.
After splitting its first two games, including a hard-fought five-set defeat to Bulgaria, the sixth-ranked side regrouped and secured its Round of 16 berth with a four-set victory over Germany.
With its depth and resilience, Slovenia poses a formidable challenge to the Americans as both sides aim for a quarterfinal spot.
Expect another strong outing from Toncek Stern, Ziga Stern, and Nik Mujanovic.
[ALSO READ: Ziga Stern, Slovenia quickly shift focus to Team USA for Round of 16 of FIVB Worlds]
Team USA and Slovenia’s knockout duel is expected to be one of the highlights of the tournament’s first elimination round.
First serve is set for 3:30 p.m.
[ALSO READ: Italy, Poland, USA continue quest for FIVB Worlds supremacy as Round of 16 gets going]
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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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.]