Defending champion Italy seeks payback against resurgent Belgium in a high-stakes quarterfinal duel at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
Defending champion Italy renews its rivalry with Belgium in a high-stakes quarterfinal showdown at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on Wednesday, September 24, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The two teams already crossed paths in Pool F, where the Belgians stunned the Azzurri in a five-set thriller to finish the group stage unbeaten with eight points.
Italy settled for second place at 2-1 with seven points, setting the stage for their latest encounter in the knockout round.
Both squads advanced in style in the Round of 16. Italy overpowered Argentina in straight sets, 25-23, 25-20, 25-22, while Belgium likewise swept Finland, 25-21, 25-17, 25-21, to reach the last eight.
[ALSO READ: Simone Giannelli relieved as Italy advances to FIVB World Championship Round of 16]
For the Belgians, it marked a historic milestone, as this is their first quarterfinal appearance in 55 years since placing eighth in 1970.
Belgium’s rise has been fueled under coach Emanuele Zanini, who took the helm in 2022 with support from the FIVB Empowerment Programme’s Coach Support project.
Now, they stand on the brink of another breakthrough, but will have to overcome Italy’s championship pedigree to keep their dream alive.
[ALSO READ: Ferre Reggers, Belgium have nothing to lose heading to FIVB World Championship knockouts]
With both sides carrying confidence and history into the matchup, fans can expect a tense quarterfinal clash with a semifinal berth on the line.
First serve will begin at 3:30 p.m.
(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.]