Italy Roars Into the Finals with Dominant Shutout Demolition of Belgium…Read More…
Italy has made its intentions crystal clear — they are not just contenders, they are the team to beat. With a breathtaking performance that combined ruthless offense and airtight defense, the Azzurre marched into the finals of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) after obliterating Belgium in straight sets: 25–17, 25–12, 25–14.
This semifinal showdown was expected to offer resistance, but it turned out to be a one-sided masterclass as Italy delivered a shutout so emphatic, it echoed beyond the Chiba Port Arena. From the first whistle, there was no question who was in control.
Total Domination
The Italians came into the semifinals riding a wave of momentum, having topped their group and dispatched opponents with clinical precision. But against Belgium, they shifted into an even higher gear.
Paola Egonu was once again the spearhead of Italy’s attack, hammering down 18 points with signature flair and fury. But she wasn’t alone. Captain Miriam Sylla and outside hitter Loveth Omoruyi each added consistent pressure, while setter Alessia Orro pulled the strings masterfully, keeping Belgium’s blockers guessing and off balance throughout.
“Our mindset was simple — no mercy,” Egonu said after the match. “This is the business end of the tournament. Every point counts, and we’re not here to play safe.”
The stats told the same story. Italy tallied 43 kills to Belgium’s 22, 10 blocks to Belgium’s 3, and committed just 6 unforced errors — a stark contrast to Belgium’s 19.
A Defensive Fortress
Belgium, to their credit, attempted to rally, particularly in the opening set where they trailed only 14–12 midway. But once Italy locked into rhythm, there was no stopping the blue wave.
Libero Monica De Gennaro delivered a defensive clinic, covering the court with cat-like agility and digging up balls that seemed destined for the floor. Middle blockers Anna Danesi and Marina Lubian formed a towering barrier at the net, frustrating Belgium’s outside hitters and forcing them into awkward, off-balance shots.
Coach Davide Mazzanti, the architect of Italy’s recent resurgence, praised his team’s total focus.
“I couldn’t ask for more,” he said. “This wasn’t just about power. It was about poise, reading the game, and executing under pressure. We’re proud of what we showed today — but we’re not finished.”
Belgium’s Pain, Italy’s Statement
The match was a painful reminder for Belgium of the gap between promise and execution. Led by star hitter Britt Herbots, Belgium had been one of the surprise packages of this VNL edition, defying expectations to reach the semifinals. But against Italy, their momentum evaporated.
“We couldn’t get into rhythm. They shut us down at every turn,” Herbots admitted. “But we’ve grown so much as a team this tournament. We’ll take this experience and build on it.”
Coach Gert Vande Broek echoed her sentiments. “This was a reality check,” he said. “Italy played like champions tonight. We’ll go back, learn, and come back stronger. I’m still proud of our journey.”
A Nation Inspired
Back home, the Italian public celebrated as highlights of the match flooded social media. Hashtags like #AzzurreFinale, #EgonuPower, and #RoadToGold trended within hours. Italy’s volleyball renaissance is in full swing, and the country has rallied behind this squad with passion.
The match also drew attention from Italian sporting legends and politicians. Olympic fencing champion Bebe Vio tweeted: “These girls are warriors! One more win to immortality. Forza Azzurre!”
With the final just days away, the anticipation is soaring.
Next Stop: The Final
Italy will now face either the United States or China in Sunday’s final — a clash that promises fireworks no matter the opponent. Both teams are traditional powerhouses, but neither has looked quite as unstoppable as the Italians this week.
Mazzanti, though, was quick to refocus. “Yes, we’re happy tonight,” he said. “But we have one more mountain to climb. This isn’t the end — it’s just the beginning of our biggest test yet.”
Sylla, the ever-passionate captain, summed it up best: “We’ve trained for this. We’ve sacrificed for this. And now… we fight for gold.”
Final Score:
Italy def. Belgium — 3-0 (25-17, 25-12, 25-14)
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