Exciting semi-final battles set for FIVB U21 Worlds

The stage is set for a pair of thrilling semi-final matches today in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s U21 World Championship 2019, being held in Bahrain. Italy and Brazil head into the knockout games as favourites, having each swept their three matches in the second round. But they are set to face a pair of quality opponents, with the Italians taking on fellow-European side Russia and the Brazilians battling Asian champions Iran. Italy and Russia face off in the first final four clash at 4.30pm, while Brazil and Iran lock horns next at 7pm.

All are welcome to attend the matches at Shaikh Isa Sports City in Riffa. Entrance is free. Italy won a maximum nine points in Pool F of round two, flexing their muscles in straight-set wins over hosts Bahrain and Argentina and taking a four-setter against Iran. Brazil did the same in Pool E, giving up just a single set throughout the phase in a 3-1 triumph against Russia, while enjoying three-set victories against China and Korea.

The Italians are the only team in the world championship who have yet to taste defeat, as they had also taken all three of their games in the first round. Both the Brazilians and Russians, meanwhile, are returning to the semi-finals after also appearing in this phase in the 2017 edition of this tournament. They both lost, however, and Russia eventually claimed the bronze medal while Brazil had to settle for fourth.

The Russians are the most successful team in the tournament, having won the gold 10 times previously. Brazil won four times while Italy and Iran are both searching for their first under-21 world title. The winners in Saturday’s last four will move on to the gold medal game on Saturday, July 27, while the losing sides will face off for the bronze medals the same day. Aside from the final four, several classification matches are also scheduled for today. Headlining the schedule is Bahrain’s match with China, set for an 11.30am start.

Both teams are hoping to finish as high as fifth, as are Argentina and Korea who are contesting the same classification group. Playing for ninth to 12th places are the Czech Republic, Canada, Cuba and Poland; while for 13th to 16th are Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Puerto Rico.