Serbia and Iran lock horns in a Round of 16 showdown at the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship, with both teams battling for a coveted quarterfinal berth.
Serbia looks to continue its strong momentum when it faces Iran in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on Tuesday, September 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City
After a stunning opening-day loss to Czechia, Serbia quickly regrouped and showcased its strength with commanding wins over China and powerhouse Brazil to claim the top spot in Pool H.
Opposite spiker Drazen Luburic headlines the Serbian attack, with Aleksandar Nedeljkovic and Pavle Peric providing additional firepower and stability across the floor.
[ALSO READ: Dražen Luburic, Serbia take 'hard way' to clinch Round of 16 berth at FIVB World Championship]
Iran, meanwhile, had to claw its way into the knockout rounds.
The Princes of Iran nearly missed the cut but kept their hopes alive with a late challenge that secured a dramatic do-or-die win against host Alas Pilipinas, dashing the Filipinos’ dreams in front of the home crowd.
Outside hitter Poriya Hossein Khanzadeh Firouzjah will lead Iran’s charge, supported by Ali Hajipour Moghadam Farouji and Ali Haghparast as they aim to pull off another upset.
[ALSO READ: FIVB | Piazza praises Alas after narrow Iran escape: 'They deserve to be in first 16 teams']
With Serbia firing on all cylinders and Iran fighting to keep its underdog story alive, the clash promises intensity as both teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.
First serve will begin at 8:00 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.]