Slovenia is through to the next stage of the men's indoor volleyball in Paris 2024 following its commanding straight-sets victory over Serbia.
World no. 4 Slovenia continued its fine form in the Olympic Games Paris 2024 after making quick work of world no. 11 Serbia in straight sets, 25-21, 25-19, 25-19, at the South Paris Arena 1 in France on Wednesday, July 31 (Philippine time).
Opposite hitter Toncek Štern was simply unstoppable in the match, finishing with a game-high 25 points built on 22 attacks, one block, and two service aces.
Never looking threatened, the Slovenians managed to pull away in all three sets and maintained their lead to secure a huge victory to advance to the quarterfinals.
Tied at 15-all in the second, middle blocker Alen Pajenk connected on three service aces to give momentum to Slovenia, which ultimately fueled the set victory.
Riding on that momentum, the world no. 4 continued to charge on as the team’s blocking prowess was in full effect in the latter stage of the match.
Klemen Cebulj then sealed the second straight victory for Slovenia after an emphatic crosscourt hit.
Cebulj contributed 12 markers in the win. Team captain Tine Urnaut added nine points, while Pajenk had six.
Marko Ivovic was the lone double-digit scorer for Serbia with 10 points in the loss.
Having already secured the top spot in Pool A, Serbia will look to finish the pool play on a solid note as they face hosts France on Friday, August 2, at 11:00 p.m. (Philippine time).
Serbia, on the other hand, will seek their first win in Paris 2024 against Canada on Sunday, August 4, at 3:00 a.m.(Philippine time).