News - FIVB Volleyball World League 2015

WGP 2015 WL 2015

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WGP 2015 WL 2015

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Volleyball 11/07/2015

Today we played amazing, exclaims Toniutti

Varna, Bulgaria, July 11, 2015 – With moods naturally on opposite ends of the spectrum some players of France and Bulgaria spoke in front of the camera after the final of FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 Group 2 in Varna.

Volleyball 11/07/2015

France roll on to Group 2 title and Final Six in Rio

Varna, Bulgaria, July 11, 2015 – France continued their unprecedented winning streak in the FIVB Volleyball World League on to the Group 2 final against Bulgaria, which they won by 3-0 (25-16, 25-20, 25-21) despite a totally overpacked with noisy home fans competition hall in Varna and booked the last remaining vacancy at the Finals of Group 1 in Brazil.

Volleyball 11/07/2015

We still have to work a lot to be among the best, admits Argentina’s captain

Varna, Bulgaria, July 11, 2015 – Statements from after Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Belgium in the third place match of the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 Group 2

Volleyball 11/07/2015

Dramatic five-setter brings Argentina to third place in Group 2

Varna, Bulgaria, July 11, 2015 – Argentina claimed the third place in Group 2 of FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 after a disputed match against Belgium in Varna. The European team caught up twice before the South Americans finished it off at 3-2 (25-18, 20-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-11) and took the 11th place in the overall final standings of the competition, leaving the opponent in the 12th. The game was also a scoring race between Argentina’s Facundo Conte (24 points) and Belgium’s Sam Deroo (23).

Volleyball 10/07/2015

Bulgaria and France to challenge each other in Group 2 final

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – Bulgaria and France are the two winners of Friday’s semifinals in Group 2 of FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 and will measure up against each other in Saturday’s final match in Varna for a ticket to the Final Six in Brazil and promotion to Group 1 of the competition. This game will start at 17:40 GMT. Three hours earlier, at 14:40 GMT, Belgium and Argentina will battle it out for the third place.

Volleyball 10/07/2015

France gave us a lesson how to play volleyball, admits Velasco

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – The second Group 2 semifinal was a learning experience for Argentina, which lost to France in straight sets. The winning side, however, had to give its best on the court to beat the South American team. Here are the post-match statements...

Volleyball 10/07/2015

Good serving indicates good shape, sums up Konstantinov

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – Good serving indicates good shape. This is the opinion of Bulgaria’s coach Plamen Konstantinov, which he shared at the press conference after his team won the Group 2 semifinal against Belgium, acing 12 times. Here is what was said...

Volleyball 10/07/2015

France shut out Argentina en route to Saturday’s final

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – Bulgaria vs. France is the final of Group 2 in the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015. The French team did not face too many issues in Friday’s second semifinal in Varna, cruising to a swift 3-0 (25-13, 25-20, 25-17) victory over Argentina. Antonin Rouzier contributed 20 points to become the best scorer of the match. His team mate Earvin Ngapeth added another 12 for France. Facundo Conte was Argentina’s top scorer with 9 points.

Volleyball 10/07/2015

Nikolov and Nikolov put the "acing" on the cake for Bulgaria

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – Bulgaria became the first team to secure a spot in the final of Group 2 of the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015. In front of a full house of over 5,000 spectators, among which former president of the Republic of Bulgaria Georgi Parvanov, the Lions put on a great show to defeat Belgium by 3-1 (23-25, 25-14, 25-18, 25-20), led by the shining performances of Vladimir Nikolov who top-scored with 22 points and middle blocker Nikolay Nikolov who aced six times and kill-blocked five for a total of 16 points, as many as team mate Todor Aleksiev. Sam Deroo was Belgium’s best scorer with 14 points.

Volleyball 10/07/2015

Sold-out Palace and fantastic ambience for World League finals in Varna

Varna, Bulgaria, July 10, 2015 – Real frenzy for tickets has overtaken the city of Varna where the finals in Group 2 of the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 are about to take off. The Palace of Sports and Culture in what is dubbed ”the seaside capital” of Bulgaria has been completely sold out for the event and hundreds of fans desperate to get into the hall and watch the matches will have to do it in front of the tickets.

Volleyball 09/07/2015

Volleyball is the sure winner at Group 2 Finals in Bulgaria

Varna, Bulgaria, July 9, 2015 – The FIVB Volleyball World League Group 2 Finals event in Varna was kicked off on Thursday afternoon with a coaches’ press conference. The participants shared their thoughts ahead of Friday’s semifinals between Bulgaria and Belgium and between France and Argentina.

Volleyball 06/07/2015

The hardest work is yet to be done by France

Brest, France, July 4, 2015 - France celebrate the remaining winning strike after victory over Korea 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-18, 25-15), but the French are looking forward to their next big step in the 2015 World League - Group 2 Final Four in Varna, Bulgaria. Team France will meet Bulgaria, Argentina and Belgium to compete for the spot in the Final Six in Rio de Janeiro. It will be their second Final Four - in the 2014 World League France lost to Australia. Kevin Le Roux emphasizes that the hardest work is ahead of his team.

Volleyball 05/07/2015

Portuguese captain bids farewell to the national team

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, July 5, 2015 – Joao Jose, Portugal’s captain says goodbye to the national team after 256 caps. The 37-year-old, Best Middle Blocker of the 2002 World Championships, was calm on the farewell after the World League game with Finland.

Volleyball 05/07/2015

Argentina claim victory over Bulgaria

Varna, Bulgaria, July 5, 2015 - Argentina prevailed 3-1 (25-19, 24-26, 25-17, 25-28) over Bulgaria dropping one set after losing five point advantage in the late stage.

Volleyball 05/07/2015

Finns spoil Joao Jose’s farewell

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, July 5, 2015 – Finland finished their participation in Pool E of the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 on a high note, claiming a 3-1 (25-18, 25-20, 18-25, 25-23) victory at Portugal. This outcome somewhat spoiled the day for the home star Joao Jose, for whom this was the last cap in his player career bidding farewell to the Portuguese national team. Olli-Pekka Ojansivu was the best scorer of the match hammering 23 points for the winning side. One short on the Portuguese side was Alexandre Ferreira.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

Todor Aleksiev stops Argentina in their chase for a spot in the finals

Varna, Bulgaria, July 4, 2015 - Bulgaria defeat Argentina 3-0 (27-25, 25-20, 25-22) at home court in Varna during the last weekend of the Intercontinental Round of the 2015 World League. Todor Aleksiev, who joined the team this week, coming back from European Games in Baku, led the team to victory with experienced Vladimir Nikolov. Both players recorded 15 points. Argentina still keep the chance to qualify to the finals of the Group 2 if they win on Sunday.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

France close the round with unbroken winning strike

Brest, France, July 4, 2015 - France close the 2015 World League Intercontinental Round with unbroken winning strike after victory 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-18, 25-15) over Korea. Both French opposite players, Mory Sidibe and Antonin Rouzier, ruled at the net and service line scoring 11 and 10 points respectively. Finishing at the top of a pool D, France will play Final Four of Group 2 in Varna with a promising prognosis, aiming to prolong the record of victories.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

Netherlands finish the World League with the victory

Antwerp, Belgium, July 4, 2015 - Netherlands end the 2015 World League Intercontinental round with a victory over Red Dragons 3-0 (25-23, 25-22, 25-17). A hero for the Oranje was Niels Klapwijk, who led the team in attack with 15 points. Jelte Maan remains the best server, scoring 3 aces for the Dutch. This was the last match for the Netherlands with Belgium already through to the Final Four of the Group 2, which will take place in Varna, Bulgaria next weekend.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

Ojansivu scores 27 points as Finland edge out Portugal in five-set thriller

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, July 4, 2015 - It all ended the wrong way round, as far as the home crowd were concerned, as Finland edged a thrilling match to beat Portugal 3-2 (25-17, 22-25, 25-17, 24-26, 15-13) in the World League.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

"We were better than yesterday," says Czech Republic coach Zdenek Smejkal. "I am glad we finished with a win"

Opava, Czech Republic, July 4, 2015 – Czech team outplayed Japan 3-0 (25-19, 30-28, 25-13) in their second home match to finish the World League season on the third place in pool D.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

Revenge for Czech Republic as Finger and Bartos lead 3-0 win over Japan

Opava, Czech Republic, July 4, 2015 - The home crowd were delighted as the Czech Republic turned the tables on Japan, who had beaten them in straight sets in the reverse fixture on Friday.

Volleyball 04/07/2015

Korea looks to stop 10th straight loss to France

France defeated Korea 3-0 on Friday, their ninth straight win over the Koreans in the World League.

Volleyball 03/07/2015

Belgium off to Varna with tie-breaker edge over Netherlands

Antwerp, Belgium, July 3, 2015 – Belgium booked their ticket to this year’s Group 2 finals in the FIVB Volleyball World League and may start packing for Varna even before their last Pool E game this weekend. Despite Kay Van Dijk’s fantastic performance resulting in 30 points for the Netherlands, the Belgians outplayed their neighbours in a nail-biting five setter shaping up a final score of 3-2 (22-25, 25-20, 23-25, 33-31, 16-14). Sam Deroo with 18 points and Pieter Coolman with 17 were the winning side’s best scorers.

Volleyball 03/07/2015

Nambu: It was our best World League performance this year

Opava, Czech Republic, July 3, 2015 – The Czech team easily lost their first home match against Japan and now they cannot reach the second place in Pool D. The Japanese team was better throughout the game and deserved the 3-0 victory.

Volleyball 03/07/2015

Kunihiro Shimizu strings 23 for Japan in three sets at Opava

Opava, Czech Republic, July 3, 2015 – Japan cruised to a 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 25-23) win against the home side of the Czech Republic in their Pool D match of the FIVB Volleyball World League 2015. Kunihiro Shimizu carried this success on his wings scoring as many as 23 points in the three sets of this game.

Volleyball 03/07/2015

Smejkal: "Second place in pool D is our goal"

Opava, Czech Republic, July 3, 2015 - The Czech national team are holding back on their preparations for their match against Japan, who they will take on at the City Hall Opava this weekend in FIVB Volleyball World League Pool D.

Volleyball 02/07/2015

Tillie leads France to 11th straight win in Pool D

Castelnau-Le-Lez, France July 2, 2015 - Kevin Tillie led France to an impressive 11th straight victory for France as they grew stronger as the game wore on to overwhelm the away side 3-0 (26-24, 25-18, 25-21) who battled hard with Jae-Duck Seo leading the scoring on the night with 15 points.

Volleyball 28/06/2015

Penchev and Petkov on form in Bulgaria win over Cuba

Varna, Bulgaria, June 28, 2015 - Bulgaria pile the pressure on Argentina in second place in Pool C with a 3-1 (25-19, 25-19, 19-25, 25-17) victory over Cuba who remain rooted to the bottom of the table. Nikolay Penchev and Stanislav Petkov lead from the front for the home side, each with a 14 point haul.

Volleyball 28/06/2015

Baeyens: "We reacted well"

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, June 28, 2015 - Despite trailing hosts Portugal in the first two sets, Belgium claimed a second away victory in FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E this weekend. Belgium coach Dominique Baeyens said his team had "reacted well".

Volleyball 28/06/2015

Deroo helps Belgium to second victory away to Portugal

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, June 28, 2015 - The second of the two FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E matches between Portugal and Belgium in Povoa de Varzim this weekend saw the visitors defeat their hosts 3-0 (28-26, 25-23, 25-18), after they had won 3-1 in their match on Saturday.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Shimizu, Ishikawa nearly help Japan upset France

Rouen, France, 27 June, 2015 – Despite losing the first two sets of the match, France battled back to defeat Japan 3-2 (23-25, 22-25, 25-20, 25-23, 15-10) in a thrilling Pool D match at the FIVB Volleyball World League on Saturday. France had only lost two other sets total in the 2015 FIVB World League entering the match.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Teodor Todorov shines in Bulgaria’s win against Cuba

Varna, Bulgaria, 27 June, 2015 – A loud crowd helped Bulgaria defeat Cuba 3-0 (25-23, 25-16, 26-24) in Pool C of the FIVB World League on Saturday. Bulgaria has now won five of their last six World League matches against Cuba.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Jan Stokr spikes Czech Republic past Korea

Liberec, Czech Republic, 27 June, 2015 – Thanks to a dominating performance from Jan Stokr, Czech Republic defeated Korea 3-1 (30-28, 25-18, 18-25, 25-21) in Pool D of the FIVB World League on Saturday. Czech Republic has now defeated Korea six of eight times in World League competition.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Czech Republic's Ales Holubec: 'We will fight next week for second place'

Liberec, Czech Republic, 27 June, 2015 – Czech Republic won their second victory over Korea. Czech Republic won 3-1 (30-28, 25-18, 18-25, 25-21) and they are now in the third place of the FIVB World League Pool D. Next week they will host Japan in Opava and they will fight for second place in their group.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Belgium's Sam Deroo: Third set was the key moment of the match

Dominque Baeyens, Belgium coach: “I am very pleased with the victory, even though it was not a good match, since both teams made many errors. In the fourth set, we were winning by several points and saw our opponent decreasing the gap, and that is something we cannot allow.”

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Van Walle and Deroo lead Belgium past Portugal

Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, 27 June, 2015 – Belgium battled back to defeat Portugal 3-1 (22-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-21) in Pool E of the FIVB Volleyball World League on Saturday. Belgium has now won nine of their last 10 World League matches, including their last four.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Sammelvuo: “It feels very hard to lose this kind of game”

Espoo, Finland, June 27, 2015 – Netherlands prevailed in the five-setter against Finland in Pool E of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Barona Areena on Saturday.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Kooy steer Netherlands’ 3-2 win against Finland

Espoo, Finland, June 27, 2015 – Dick Kooy scored crucial points that helped Netherlands endure Finland in the tiebreaker (25-18, 20-25, 18-25, 25-18, 15-13) in Pool E of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Barona Arena on Saturday.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Canada captain Winters: "I'm sure we'll have some trouble sleeping tonight"

Buenos Aires, Argentina, June 26, 2015 - Argentina beat Canada 3-1 (25-17, 18-25, 25-14, 25-21 in La Matanza, extending their World League winning streak in the Buenos Aires area to four. With the win, the South American team is still on track for the Final Four but Canada are as well, setting up an exciting theatre for their next meeting.

Volleyball 27/06/2015

Conte's return guides Argentina to 3-1 win against Canada

Buenos Aires, Argentina, June 26, 2015 - The return of Facundo Conte inspired Argentina to a 3-1 (25-17, 18-25, 25-14, 25-21) win against Pool C rivals Canada, denying Canada guaranteed progression from the Pool.

Volleyball 26/06/2015

Stokr leads Czechs to five set victory

Liberec, Czech Republic, June 26, 2015 - The Czech team won a thrilling battle against Korea 3-2 (25-22, 16-25, 16-25, 25-23, 15-12) in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the Home Credit Arena in Liberec.

Volleyball 26/06/2015

Smejkal: “We lost our concentration after the first set, but fortunately we won the match”

Liberec, Czech Republic, June 26, 2015 - The Czechs claimed victory against Korea in five sets, with their coach Zdenek Smejkal critical of how the match evolved.

Volleyball 26/06/2015

Siltala: “Holland were one step better all the time”

Espoo, Finland, June 26, 2015 – Finland captain Antti Siltala said his team had failed to keep up with their Dutch opponents tonight, as they lost in three sets to the visitors.

Volleyball 26/06/2015

Netherlands claim victory in three sets

Espoo, Finland, June 26, 2015 – Netherlands played very good volleyball for two sets and Finland struggled with their sideout attacks. In the third set there was a good fight, but after three set balls Finland also lost the third set and match 3-0 (25-15, 25-20, 28-26).

Volleyball 26/06/2015

Holubec thanks fans for their support

June 26, Liberec, Czech Republic - The Czech national team are not underestimating South Korea and are preparing for two challenging matches at the Home Credit Arena in Liberec.

Volleyball 25/06/2015

France Coach Tillie: We did the job and now we are qualified so we are happy

Tours, France, June 25, 2015 - France secured qualification for the final six with a 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-21) victory over Japan. France continued their 100% record in Pool D with Antonin Rouzier in great form in Tours with a 17 point haul.

Volleyball 25/06/2015

17-point Rouzier leads France to super eight

Tours, France, June 25, 2015 - France made it a magnificent eight in a row with a 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-21) victory with Antonin Rouzier again leading from the front for France scoring a game-changing 19 points as France sent the home crowd wild to make the final four with a 100% record-

Volleyball 24/06/2015

Argentina take on Canada in key Pool C encounters

Buenos Aires, Argentina, June 24, 2015 - Argentina and Canada prepare for a do-or-die weekend in La Matanza, near Buenos Aires, with FIVB Volleyball World League matches scheduled on Friday and Saturday at 18.40 local time. The results could decide which Pool C team qualifies for the Group 2 Finals alongside hosts Bulgaria.

Volleyball 24/06/2015

Finland know World League target

Espoo, Finland, June 24, 2015. Two weeks ago Finland could take only one set in two away matches against Netherlands. Now it is sure that “blue-whites” are out of the top two places in their pool. Same teams will face again on Friday and Saturday in Espoo.

Volleyball 22/06/2015

Bulgaria Coach Konstantinov: "The key was who wanted more to win"

Salta, Argentina, June 21, 2015 - Argentina's straight sets victory over Bulgaria was important for the home team to regain confidence, as the local favourites showed more energy than Bulgaria to get that win and continue their improvement

Volleyball 22/06/2015

Sole leads Argentina into second place in Pool C

Salta, Argentina, June 21, 2015 - Sebastian Sole led Argentina to a comfortable 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25- victory in Salta in front of a vocal home crowd to leapfrog opponents Bulgaria into second place behind leaders Canada in Pool C.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Japan captain Shimizu: "I’m happy that we won this match"

Osaka, Japan, June 21, 2015 - After a surprisingly easy win against Korea on Saturday, Japan again outcalssed their Asian rivals on Sunday 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-18) with both coaches admitting there was a big difference in concentration between the teams.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Japan outclass Korea on home soil

Osaka, Japan, June 21, 2015 - Japan earned a victory in straight sets 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-18) over Korea as Kunihiro Shimizu displayed a true excellence with 17 points scored.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Cuba bid farewell to Havana with a victory

Havana, Cuba, June 20, 2015 – Cuba bounced back to get a thrilling 3-2 (17-25, 20-25, 25-23, 25-19, 15-12) victory over Canada on Saturday to end the series of matches in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League, played in the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Cepeda powers Cuban win over Canada in five-setter

Havana, Cuba, June 21, 2015 – Cuba made a gallant effort to turn the tables against Canada as the home side succeeded 3-2 (17-25, 20-25, 25-23, 25-19, 15-10) in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Saturday.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Andrey Zhekov: "We believed in ourselves"

Salta, Argentina, June 20, 2015 - After a nail-biting five sets, Bulgaria achieved a well-celebrated win over Argentina, as they kept their cool in key moments of the match in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Estadio Delmi on Saturday.

Volleyball 21/06/2015

Yosifov heads race in tie-break win of Bulgaria

Salta, Argentina, June 20, 2015 – Bulgaria won the exciting race with a 3-2 (26-24, 22-25, 26-24, 16-25, 18-16) win over hosts Argentina in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Estadio Delmi on Saturday.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Portugal's Ferreira: "It was an emotional match, but we like that"

Groningen, Netherlands, June 20, 2015 - Portugal won their first match of the 2015 FIVB World League with 3-2 (15-25, 25-21, 25-23, 21-25, 15-11) over Netherlands in Pool E.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

France coach Tillie: "We won but it was difficult to find a rhythm"

Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, June 20, 2015 - France continue their winning streak with another victory over Czech Republic 3-1 (25-17, 23-25, 25-22, 25-14) in front of 5000 fans in Budvar Arena.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Portugal prevail over Netherlands in exciting five-setter

Groningen, Netherlands, June 20, 2015 - Portugal earned their first victory of the 2015 FIVB World League with a thrilling 3-2 (15-25, 25-21, 25-23, 21-25, 15-11) win over Netherlands in Pool E on Saturday.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

France sink Czech Republic in four sets

Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, June 20, 2015 - Czech Republic fell in four sets 1-3 (17-25, 25-23, 22-25, 14-25) to France on Saturday afternoon in Ceske Budejovice despite great performance from Jan Stokr who finished with 21 points scored.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Korea's Yong-Kwan: "I have no words to explain the loss"

Osaka, Japan, June 20, 2015 - Japan easily beat their Asian Pool D rival Korea on Saturday with a 3-0 win (25-17, 25-17, 25-17). Japan's coach Masashi Nambu and his captain Kunihiro Shimizu expected to face a tougher Korean squad here in Osaka, having lost to Korea last week.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Japan breeze past Korea

Osaka, Japan, June 20, 2015 - Japan dominated from start to finish as they beat Korea 3-0 (25-17, 25-17, 25-17) to overtake them into second place of Pool D of FIVB World League.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Canada captain Winters: "Adjustments in our lineup got us back in the game"

Havana, Cuba, June 19, 2015 – Canada edged Cuba 3-1 in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 20/06/2015

Marshall spearheads Canadian 3-1 victory in Pool C

Havana, Cuba, June 19, 2015 – Steven Marshall fronted the Canadian blitz for a 3-1 (25-14, 20-25, 25-21, 25-21) win over Cuba in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 19/06/2015

Netherlands' Abdelaziz: "It was not an easy victory"

Groningen, Netherlands, June 19, 2015 - Netherlands overpowered Portugal 3-0 (25-18, 25-21, 25-23) as they were able to stay calm in the crucial moments of this encounter.

Volleyball 19/06/2015

Tillie: "We were very focused on the match"

Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, June 19, 2015 - France continue to fly high at the top of Pool D after a 3-0 (25-18, 25-20, 26-24) win over the Czech Republic. France have won seven from seven so far and sit 14 points ahead of their nearest challengers.

Volleyball 19/06/2015

Netherlands overpower Portugal on home turf

Groningen, Netherlands, June 19, 2015 - Netherlands took a 3-0 (25-18, 25-21, 25-23) vicory over Portugal with the two opening sets going comfortably in their hands before the visitors managed to establish a fierce resistance in the final set.

Volleyball 19/06/2015

Ngapeth leads France to magnificent seven

Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, June 19, 2015 - Earvin Ngapeth again leads from the front with 18 points as France take a 3-0 (25-18, 25-20, 26-24) win over the Czech Republic to continue their 100% record in Pool D. The Czech Republic are no match for the impressive league leaders.

Volleyball 19/06/2015

Nambu: "I'll have our players serving hard to pressure Korea"

Osaka, Japan, June 19, 2015 - A week after Korea and Japan split their two-game series in Suwon, the two sides now converge on Osaka where coach Masashi Nambu of Japan hopes the home crowd can given his team an edge. Korea played very different matches at home, and despite battling a few injuries, coach Moon Yong-Kwan is looking for a more consistent performance in Japan over the weekend.

Volleyball 18/06/2015

Cuba and Canada share point-by-point philosophy

Havana, Cuba, June 18, 2015 - Cuba host Canada this weekend in Havana’s Ciudad Deportiva, to play a series that both teams take on with a point-by-point philosophy.

Volleyball 17/06/2015

Argentina return home to welcome familiar foes Bulgaria

Salta, Argentina, June 17, 2015 – Argentina return home to take on Bulgaria in the FIVB Volleyball World League in the Estadio Delmi in Salta after claiming two away wins from their trip through Canada and Cuba.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

That was a real battle, says Belgian coach Baeyens

Liege, Holland, 14 June, 2015 – Belgium Belgian coach Dominique Baeyens said his side’s 3-2 (25-13, 25-27, 30-28, 23-25, 15-14) win over Portugal was truly tough going.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

This is a big step forward for France, says Marechal

Tourcoing, France, 14 June, 2015 – France’s Nicolas Marechal said that his side had made a great stride towards qualifying for Finals 4 after their straight sets (27-25, 26-24, 25-22) win over the Czech Republic on Sunday.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Van Walle helps Belgium squeeze past Portuguese

Liege, Belgium, 14 June, 2015 – Belgium beat Portugal (25-13, 25-27, 30-28, 23-25, 15-14) in a tightly-fought and exciting FIVB World League fixture.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Sidibe shines as French bounce Czechs

Tourcoing, France, 14 June, 2015 – France beat Czech Republic in straight sets (27-25, 26-24, 25-22) in their FIVB World League clash on Sunday.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Our serve and block worked so well, says Holland coach

Almere, Netherlands, 13 June, 2015 – Netherlands coach Gido Vermeulen said that his side had to work harder than yesterday to overcome Finland 3-1 – but that they adjusted well to take the win.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Kooy and Van Dijk too strong for Finns again

Almere, Netherlands, 13 June, 2015 – Once again inspired by the brilliant offensive play of Kay Van Dijk and Dick Kooy, the Netherlands beat Finland 3-1 (22-25, 25-20, 25-14, 25-19) as the two sides met in the FIVB World League on Sunday night.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Korea coach Moon Yong-Kwan happy with his belief in Choi Hong-Suk

Suwon, Korea, June 14, 2015 - Korea beat their Asian rival Japan in straight sets 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-18). The hosts succeeded after yesterday’s defeat on home turf.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Korea cruise to a straight-set triumph over Japan

Suwon, Korea, June 14, 2015 - Korea recovered well after a defeat on Saturday to overcome Japan 3-0 (25-20, 25-21, 25-18) sealing their second victory in the 2015 World League. Choi Hong-Suk contributed with 15 points to a remarkable win.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Alvarez: "Tonight our serve was lethal"

Havana, Cuba, June 13, 2015 – Argentina recorded a 3-0 victory over Cuba at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Saturday in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Argentina sweep Cuba to split victories in Havana

Havana, Cuba, June 13, 2015 – Argentina dominated Cuba 3-0 (25-23, 25-18, 25-21) to split victories at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League on Saturday.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Marshall brings a different dynamic to our game, says coach Hoag

Summerside, Canada, June 13, 2015 – Canada snapped their two-match losing streak when they defeated Bulgaria 3-1 in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Credit Union Place on Saturday.

Volleyball 14/06/2015

Perrin steps up to snap Canadian losing streak

Summerside, Canada, June 13, 2015 – John Gordon Perrin topscored for Canada with 17 points, to contribute for his team’s 3-1 (25-18, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20) triumph over Bulgaria in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Credit Union Place on Saturday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Portugal Hurt By Missing Players

Luik, Belgium, 13 June, 2015 - Portugal coach Hugo Silva: "Our team has changed in several places, so it was rather difficult to find the normal attitudes. We need some time to play with the same. Our reception was not so good, but at the end of the game we put some pressure on the Belgian defense. Nothing to lose tomorrow and we are trying to win at least one set tomorrow, and you'll never know."

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Dominating Attack Spikes Belgium Over Portugal

Luik, Belgium, 13 June, 2015 – A fierce attack by Belgium allowed them to defeat Portugal 3-0 (25-16, 25-21, 25-23) in their FIVB World League match on Saturday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Our volleyball is worth watching, says happy Netherlands coach

Almere, Netherlands, 13 June, 2015 – Netherlands coach Gido Vermeulen was delighted to see his side bounce back from defeat against Belgium to beat Finland 3-0 (25-20, 25-14. 25-18) in the World League on Saturday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Van Dijk and Kooy blow away Finland

Almere, Netherlands, 13 June, 2015 – Inspired by the brilliant offensive play of Kay Van Dijk and Dick Kooy, the Netherlands beat Finland 3-0 (25-20, 25-14. 25-18) to continue their impressive World League campaign.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Japan coach Nambu praises his winning strategy

Suwon, Korea, June 13, 2015 - Japan prevailed over Korea with 3-1 (25-20, 20-25, 25-21, 25-19). Japan claimed their second victory in Pool D while Korea are still at the bottom.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Japan down Korea at their home

Suwon, Korea, June 13, 2015 - Japan prevailed over Korea with 3-1 (25-20, 20-25, 25-21, 25-19). Masahiro Yanagida and Kunihiro Shimizu contirbuted to the victory with respectively 21 and 20 points scored.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Cuba coach Sanchez happy but not satisfied with victory

Havana, Cuba, June 12, 2015 – Cuba coach Rodolfo Sanchez and his team got a 3-1 win over Argentina but the coach expressed he is still not satisfied with his team’s performance in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportivo Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Cepeda leads Cuba in redeeming 3-1 win over Argentina

Havana, Cuba, June 12, 2015 – Captain Rolando Cepeda scored 21 points to lead Cuba to a 3-1 (25-20, 25-21, 20-25, 25-21) win over Argentina in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League, to earn their first home victory at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

We showed we can win like a team, says coach Kosntantinov

Summerside, Canada, June 12, 2015 – Bulgaria pulled some strings to complete a 3-2 finish over hosts Canada in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Credit Union Place on Friday.

Volleyball 13/06/2015

Milushev sizzles in Bulgarian tie-break win over Canada

Summerside, Canada, June 12, 2015 – Danail Milushev’s 17 points lifted Bulgaria to a thrilling five-set (20-25, 25-19, 22-25, 27-25, 15-12) triumph over hosts Canada in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Credit Union Place on Friday.

Volleyball 12/06/2015

Antonin Rouzier: We dominated the match

Poitiers, France, June 12, 2015 - France were comfortable 3-0 (25-15, 25-23, 25-11) winners over the Czech Republic in Poitiers as they maintained their 100 per cent record in Pool D. It was a bad night for Czech Republic who lose ground in their chase to catch France.

Volleyball 12/06/2015

Ngapeth and Rouzier lead France to a comfortable win

Poitiers, France, June 12, 2015 - Earvin Ngapeth and Antonin Rouzier were in inspired form for France as they comfortably beat the Czech republic in their first tie of the weekend with both players scoring 16 points to lead France to a 3-0 victory.

Volleyball 12/06/2015

Havana ready for Cuba-Argentina clash in Pool C

Havana, Cuba, June 11, 2015 - The coaches of the Argentinean and Cuban teams attended a press conference ahead of the FIVB Volleyball World League Pool C matches between the two teams this weekend.

Volleyball 10/06/2015

Argentina in Havana to prepare World League Pool C encounter with Cuba

Havana, Cuba, June 10, 2015 - Argentina are training in Havana for their matches against Cuba in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League, which will be held next Friday and Saturday at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Baeyens: "We decided to change our tactics today"

S-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, June 7, 2015 - Belgium defeated Low Countries rivals the Netherlands 3-0 (25-12, 25-17, 25-14) in the second of their two FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E matches this weekend. At the press conference following the match, Belgium coach Dominique Baeyens praised his players for reacting so well after losing to the Dutch in five sets on Saturday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Van Walle and Deroo lead Belgium to impressive victory

S-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, June 7, 2015 - Belgium's top scorer Gert Van Walle and an outstanding performance by Sam Deroo led coach Dominique Baeyens' men to a straight-sets 3-0 (25-12, 25-17, 25-14) victory against the Netherlands in FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E on Sunday, making amends for the five-set defeat to their neighbours yesterday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Korea's Kwak Seungsuk: "I no longer fear high blocking"

Cheonan, Korea, June 7, 2015 - Korea win their first match of the 2015 World League with a 3-1 (27-29, 25-18, 25-20, 25-21) victory over Czech Republic.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

France coach Tillie: We really enjoyed today's game

Kyoto, Japan, June 7, 2015 - In the second match against hosts Japan, France continued firing on all cylinders to take a second straight 3-0 win, this time 25-15, 25-18, 25-23. Just as yesterday, Japan couldn't find any rhythm until the third set, and even then it proved to be too little, as France would not be interrupted in their World League campaign in Kyoto.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Korea earn first win with 3-1 over Czech Republic

Cheonan, Korea, June 7, 2015 - An inspired performance from Jae-Duck Seo led Korea to their first victory of the 2015 World League with a 3-1 (27-29, 25-18, 25-20, 25-21) win over Czech Republic on Sunday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Rouzier leads France to second victory over Japan

Kyoto, Japan, June 7, 2015 - 13 points from the wing spiker helped France achieve their second win over Japan this weekend with a 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 25-23) at the Shimadzu Arena on Sunday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Focus was the winning factor in the match, says Konstantinov

Havana, Cuba, June 6, 2015 – Bulgaria completed two victories after their 3-1 triumph over hosts Cuba in an intense Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Saturday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Bulgaria silence hosts Cuba with 3-1 triumph

Havana, Cuba, June 6, 2015 – The visiting Bulgarian side came back from losing the first set to beat hosts Cuba 3-1 (18-25, 25-20, 26-24, 25-23) in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Saturday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Excellent substitutions key to Argentine victory

Halifax, Canada, June 6, 2015 – Argentina seized a 3-2 win over Canada to equalise their series in Halifax at the FIVB Volleyball World League on Saturday.

Volleyball 07/06/2015

Argentina bounce back with tiebreaker win in Halifax

Halifax, Canada, June 6, 2015 – Argentina re-established their skilful plays against Canada for a 3-2 (23-25, 25-22, 21-25, 25-19, 15-10) victory on Saturday after their devastating straight-set defeat the day before in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Scotia Centre.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Vermeulen: "What we showed was world class"

S-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, June 6, 2015 - It took five sets to decide the outcome of tonight's FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E match between the Netherlands and Belgium, with Dutch coach Gido Vermeulen pouring praise on his players' performance at the post-match press conference.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Sammelvuo satisfied with three points

Vaasa, Finland, June 6, 2015 - Speaking at the press conference following the FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E encounter between Finland and Portugal on Saturday, Finnish coach Tuomas Sammelvuo said he was happy with the three points collected from the 3-1 (25-23, 28-30, 25-14, 25-23) win over Portugal.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Finland claim second World League Pool E victory against Portugal

Vaasa, Finland, June 6, 2015 - The second FIVB Volleyball World League Pool E encounter between Finland and Portugal this weekend saw the hosts again claim victory, this time in four sets 3-1 (25-23, 28-30, 25-14, 25-23).

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Netherlands outlive Belgian comeback to claim epic win

S-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, June 6, 2015 - The Maaspoort Sports and Events Centre in Den Bosch was the venue for a spectacular five set 3-2 (25-21, 25-18, 14-25, 22-25, 15-9) victory for the Netherlands against Belgium, in what was only the second FIVB Volleyball World League encounter between the two Low Countries.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Smejkal: "We were lucky"

Cheonan, Korea, June 6, 2015 - The Czech Republic defeated Korea 3-2 (20-25, 25-19, 18-25, 25-20, 15-12) in FIVB Volleyball World League Pool D on Saturday, even if both teams were in contention at different moments of the match.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

France coach Tillie: Our serve and block worked well today

Kyoto, Japan, June 6, 2015 - France kept their 2015 World League campaign rolling strong on Saturday against host Japan, with an impressive 3-0 win (25-12, 25-14, 28-26) to remain undefeated in the tournament. Coach Laurent Tillie was quite pleased with his team's effort today, in particular in serving and blocking. As for Japan, their captain Kunihiro Shimizu noted his side need to show more aggression if they are to compete with this French team.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Czech Republic edge past Korea in tie-breaker

Cheonan, Korea, June 6, 2015 - With neither team able to maintain a high level of play for longer periods Czech Republic will be pleased they were able to edge past home side Korea 3-2 (20-25, 25-19, 18-25, 25-20, 15-12) on Saturday.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

France breeze past Japan

Kyoto, Japan, June 6, 2015 - France dominated the action in the two opening sets before a thrilling finish gave them a 3-0 (25-12, 25-14, 28-26) win over Japan on Saturday.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Cuba vow to bounce back in next match with Bulgaria

Havana, Cuba, June 5, 2015 – Bulgaria overwhelmed the Cubans in their home soil with a 3-1 triumph, but the Cubans have promised a better performance in their next match in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Bulgaria upset Cuba in four-set clash in Havana

Havana, Cuba, June 5, 2015 – The visiting Bulgarian side defeated hosts Cuba 3-1 (25-19, 25-21, 24-26, 25-23) in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Ciudad Deportiva Coliseum on Friday.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Argentina will come back even better in the next match, says Schmitt

Halifax, Canada, June 5, 2015 – Canada posted a 3-0 victory over Argentina but admitted that they had difficulty adjusting to their opponents’ game in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League on Friday.

Volleyball 06/06/2015

Canada enjoy home court win over Argentina

Halifax, Canada, June 5, 2015 – Canada enjoyed their home court advantage with a straight-set (25-22, 27-25, 25-19) victory over Argentina in Pool C of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Scotia Centre on Friday.

Volleyball 05/06/2015

Sammelvuo thanks young spectators for their support

Vaasa, Finland, June 5, 2015 – Thousands of young Finnish children saw their heroes win against Portugal in three sets 3-0 (25-19, 25-23, 25-22). 7000 kids in Vaasa play the annual Power Cup tournament and 4000 of 4900 spectators filling the Vaasa Ice Hall tonight were also children.

Volleyball 05/06/2015

Finns claim first victory in World League Pool E

Vaasa, Finland, June 5, 2015 - Week 4 of the 2015 edition of the FIVB Volleyball World League opened with a victory for Tuomas Sammelvuo's Finland against Pool E rivals Portugal 3-0 (25-19, 25-23, 25-22) at the Vaasa Ice Hall.

Volleyball 05/06/2015

Canada and Argentina ready for World League in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Canada, June 5, 2015 - The Canadian men’s volleyball team is in Halifax to take on Argentina at Scotiabank Centre, on Friday, June 05 and Saturday, June 06.

Volleyball 05/06/2015

Nambu: "Against France, our team will see how they have improved"

Kyoto, Japan, June 5, 2015 - Having split their opening two matches with the Czech Republic on the first leg of their FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 campaign, Japan is gearing up to host a tough French squad in Kyoto on Saturday. France has won its opening two matches against Korea, but not without some difficulty. The two sides met in Kyoto last year, with France victorious in both contests.

Volleyball 05/06/2015

The joy of volleyball returns to Havana’s Ciudad Deportiva

Havana, Cuba, June 4, 2015 – The coaches of Cuba and Bulgaria attended a press conference in Havana ahead of this weekend’s FIVB World League Group 2 matches.

Volleyball 04/06/2015

Argentina ready for World League Pool C encounter with Canada

Halifax, Canada, June 4, 2015 - Argentina have travelled to Canada for their two FIVB Volleyball World League 2015 Pool C matches this weekend. Argentina split wins with Cuba last weekend, while Canada have won three of their four World League matches this season to date.

Volleyball 02/06/2015

Finland and Portugal seek first 2015 World League victory in Vaasa

Vaasa, Finland, June 2, 2015 – Finland will host Portugal for the upcoming weekend of the FIVB Volleyball World League at Vaasa, the second northwestern city in Finland to host the tournament after the city of Oulu.

Volleyball 01/06/2015

World League review - Group 2

Lausanne, Switzerland, June 1, 2015 - Belgium made it four wins out of four matches this year defeating Finland twice this weekend in FIVB Volleyball World League Group 2.

Volleyball 01/06/2015

FIVB Volleyball World League Week Three - Bulgaria storm home to end Canada's unbeaten run

Botevgrad, Bulgaria, May 31, 2015 - Bulgaria ended Canada's ubeaten start to the 2015 FIVB World League with some inspired play, coming from 0-2 down to win 3-2 (21-25, 23-25, 25-23, 25-14, 15-9) in their Pool C match in Botevgrad, Bulgaria.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Canada face first 2015 World League defeat from Bulgaria

Botevgrad, Bulgaria, May 31, 2015 – Bulgaria earn a much needed win, turning their match around against previously unbeaten Canada 3-2 (21-25, 23-25, 25-23, 25-14, 15-9) on Sunday evening at the Botevgrad Arena.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

"This is a splendid result," says Belgium coach Baeyens

Kortrijk, Belgium, May 31, 2015 – Belgian coach Dominique Baeyens said his side were surprised to have beaten Finland four times in a row after their 3-1 win in the FIVB World League on Sunday.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Belgium continue dominance of Finns

Kortrijk, Belgium, May 31, 2015 – Belgium beat Finland 3-1 (29-27, 23-25, 25-16, 25-10) in the side’s FIVB World League clash on Sunday – the same scoreline that they had beaten the Finns by on Saturday.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Thriller finishes with happy end for Czech Republic

Okayama, Japan, May 31, 2015 - Czech Republic were two sets down, but managed to recover and to take 3-2 victory over Japan on Sunday.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Czech Republic captain Holubec: "Every player helped to win"

Okayama, Japan, May 31, 2015 - After a disappointing loss to the the host Japan team to open their World League journey, the Czech Republic came very close to losing once again. But after Saturday's match where coach Zdenek Smejkal felt his players lacked fighting spirit, his squad showed great tenacity by stealing a comeback win 3-2 (22-25, 20-25, 26-24, 25-23, 15-11) to disappoint an energized Okayama crowd.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

France captain Toniutti: "We did much better"

Suwon, Korea, May 31, 2015 - France took their second concecutive win against Korea 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-21) on the opening weekend in Pool D.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Second victory for France

Suwon, Korea, May 31, 2015 - France took their second win against Korea 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-21) on the opening weekend in Pool D.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Argentina coach Velasco: "We said this game was going to be different"

Mendoza, Argentina, May 30, 2015 - Well rested and more spirited, Cuba earned their first win of the 2015 FIVB World League with a 3-2 (17-25, 25-17, 25-21, 16-25, 15-9) Pool C victory against Argentina, with Argentina saying Cuba's service was an impressive weapon.

Volleyball 31/05/2015

Cepeda inspires Cuba to first win of 2015 World League

Mendoza, Argentina, May 30, 2015 - Rolando Cepeda scored an equal tournament-high 28 points on Saturday as Cuba beat Argentina 3-2 (17-25, 25-17, 25-21, 16-25, 15-9) in their Pool C encounter, earning their first win of the 2015 FIVB World League.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

We can improve further, says Belgium coach Baeyens

Kortrijk, Belgium, May 30, 2015 – Belgian coach Dominique Baeyens said that his side made too many errors, but that their opponents Finland made more, following their 3-1 2015 FIVB World League defeat of the Finns in Kortrijk on Saturday.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Red Dragons slay Finns

Kortrijk, Belgium, May 30, 2015 – Belgium beat Finland 3-1 (25-18, 20-25, 28-26, 25-14) in the FIVB World League in front of 2,500 Red Dragons fans in Kortrijk.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

We did brilliantly after a long journey, says Canada coach

Botevgrad, Bulgaria, May 30, 2015 – Canada coach Glenn Hoag said that his side played very well despite a long journey after his side beat Bulgaria 3-1 in their FIVB World League match on Saturday evening at the Arena Botevgrad.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Canada outgun Bulgarians to win 3-1

Botevgrad, Bulgaria, May 30, 2015 – Canada beat Bulgaria 3-1 (25-20, 25-19, 22-25, 25-21) in their FIVB World League clash at the Arena Botevgrad on Saturday evening.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

France's Tillie: "Winning the second set was our turning point"

Suwon, Korea, May 30, 2015 - France struggled in the first two sets before overcoming hosts Korea 3-1 (28-30, 25-23, 25-18, 25-16). France's coach Laurent Tillie admitted that winning the second set was crucial for his team.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Japan's Yuki Ishikawa: "We can still play better"

Okayama, Japan, May 30, 2015 - Yuki Ishikawa led Japan to a victory in his hometown on Saturday. Japan dropped the first set against a tough Czech Republic squad today, but showed composure bouncing back to take the match 3-1 (21-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-20).

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Ishikawa leads Japan to a victory against Czech Republic

Okoyama, Japan, May 30, 2015 - An inspired performance from home crowd favourite Yuki Ishikawa led Japan to a hard-fought victory over Czech Republic. Japan overcame a one-set deficit to win 3-1 (21-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-20).

Volleyball 30/05/2015

France persevere against Korea

Suwon, Korea, May 30, 2015 - France seemed to be struggling as much with their own errors as with their opponents as they edged past Korea 3-1 (28-30, 25-23, 25-18, 25-16) to open their 2015 World League campaign.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Cuba's Rodolfo Sánchez:"We failed too much and that's unforgivable"

Mendoza, Argentina, May 29, 2015 - Argentina beat Cuba 3-0 (25-18, 25-19, 25-18) in their Pool C FIVB World League match, with both teams' coaches and captains agreeing Argentina was the better side and Cuba has room to improve.

Volleyball 30/05/2015

Bruno guides Argentina to confident straight-sets World League win against Cuba

Mendoza, Argentina, May 29, 2015 - Argentina opened their 2015 FIVB World League in the finest of styles, beating Pool C opponents Cuba 3-0 (25-18, 25-19, 25-18), consigning Cuba to their third successive defeat.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Fighting spirit almost guarantees another five-setter

The odds of Belgium and Finland playing another five-setter are huge with both teams possessing great fighting spirit.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Japan seek victory

Japan came into this year's World League as the team with most defeats (205). They will try to minimise the damage this year.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

France and Korea Republic clash for 18th time

Can France keep the upper hand against Korea?

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Argentina target another win against Cuba

Prior to this year, Argentina had won two of the 13 matches against Cuba.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Canada want to keep up good start

Afyonkarahisar teammates Jason Derocco (CAN) and Venelin Kadankov (BUL) to face each other again.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Canada looking forward to Bulgaria clash in World League

Lausanne, Switzerland, May 28, 2015 – After a successful season-opening weekend – beating Cuba twice in Calgary, and then winning gold at the NORCECA Champions Cup in Detroit – the Canadian Men’s Volleyball Team is now in Bulgaria ready to take on its next FIVB World League opponent.

Volleyball 29/05/2015

Japan keep focus to face Czech Republic at home

Okayama, Japan, May 29, 2015 - Japan are ready for the visiting Czech Republic team in Okayama on Saturday in the FIVB Volleyball World League play, with their coach Masashi Nambu eager to get off on the right foot at home.

Volleyball 28/05/2015

Belgium aim to continue winning streak against Finland

Belgium and Finland met last week in Tampere with Belgium winning both meetings in five sets.

Volleyball 28/05/2015

Bulgaria and Canada to meet for the first time at the World League

Bulgaria will want to redeem themselves this season as they have won only one of their last 15 World League matches. That sole win came against another NORCECA side as they beat United States 3-2 in 2014.

Volleyball 28/05/2015

Japan aiming for first win against Czech Republic

Japan hope to beat Czech Republic for the first time at the World League. They lost their previous four meetings, all in 2003.

Volleyball 28/05/2015

Korea hope to relive 2011 Suwon success against France

Korea Republic and France have met on 16 previous occasions in the World League. Korea have won five matches, France 11.

Volleyball 27/05/2015

Argentina welcome World League opponents Cuba to Mendoza

Mendoza, Argentina, May 28, 2015 - Mendoza is preparing to host Argentina's first matches in the 2015 edition of the FIVB Volleyball World League. The city will act as venue for the world's most important annual men's tournament for the third time - this time with the local favourites facing Cuba on Friday and Saturday in back-to-back Pool C games, both to be held at the Polideportivo Torito Rodríguez.

Volleyball 26/05/2015

Italy hope to impress their fans against Australia

Adelaide, Australia, May 25, 2015 – The Italian men’s national team arrived in Australia after a long journey on Monday and immediately set about working for their weekend debut in the 2015 World League when they will face Roberto Santilli’s Australia.

Volleyball 24/05/2015

Belgium run away with double tiebreaker wins over Finland

Tampere, Finland, May 24, 2015 – Belgium wielded its force for another 3-2 (29-31, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 15-11) victory over Finland in Pool E of the FIVB Volleyball World League at the Tampere Ice Hall on Sunday.

Volleyball 24/05/2015

This Belgian side has spirit, says Baeyens

Tampere, Finland, May 23, 2015 – Belgium coach Dominique Baeyens says his side showed great spirit as they battled back from behind to beat Finland 3-2 (29-31, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 15-11) on Sunday in the World League.

Volleyball 24/05/2015

Belgians edge out Finland in second five-setter of weekend

Tampere, Finland, May 23, 2015 – Belgium beat Finland for the second day in a row, and in another five-setter (29-31, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 15-11), to keep up their fine World League form.

Volleyball 24/05/2015

France head to Asia to kick off World League campaign

Lausanne, Switzerland, May 23, 2015 – France will travel to East Asia this week for two World League clashes against Korea before two matches against Japan the following weekend.

Volleyball 23/05/2015

Belgium take Finland by surprise at World League 2015

Tampere, Finland, May 23, 2015 – Belgium came out strongly in their FIVB World League 2015 opener stamping their authority over home team Finland to win 3-2 (25-20, 30-28, 20-25, 23-25, 15-7). After joining the World League only last year, Belgium place themselves in a favourable position in Pool E also containing Portugal and the Netherlands.

Volleyball 23/05/2015

Belgium better in five setter in Finland

Tampere, Finland, May 23, 2015 – Finland and Belgium started their FIVB World League campaign fighting all five sets in Tampere. Host Finland finally lost the match 2-3 (20-25, 28-30, 25-20, 25-23, 7-15).

Volleyball 23/05/2015

Belgium snatch victory over Finland

Tampere, Finland, May 23, 2015 – Belgium came out strongly in their FIVB World League 2015 opener quickly stamping their authority on the first set and going on to win 3-2 (25-20, 30-28, 20-25, 23-25, 15-7). Finland’s Olli-Pekka Ojansivu kills from the wing gave the Belgians a hard time and the Finns edged ahead for the first time at 14-13, prompting a Belgian timeout.

Volleyball 22/05/2015

Finland chase Finals place

Tampere, Finland, May 22, 2015 - After finishing ninth at the FIVB Volleyball World Championship Poland 2014, Finland's men are targeting a first appearance in an FIVB Volleyball World League Final Four tournament. The Finns take begin their World League campaign against Belgium this weekend and will also take on Portugal and the Netherlands in Group 2 Pool E.

Volleyball 22/05/2015

World League Week 2 preview: All-European duel sets scene

Lausanne, Switzerland, May 22, 2015 - Following the spectacular opening round, with double victories for the Netherlands and Canada, an all-European duel takes centre stage in the second weekend of this year’s FIVB Volleyball World League.

Volleyball 18/05/2015

Canada and Netherlands win two-from-two to open World League 2015

Calgary, Canada, May 17, 2015 - Canada beat Cuba in straight sets for the second night in a row to remain perfect in Pool C, while in Matosinhos, Portugal, the hosts made Netherlands fight all the way in the 3-2 (17-25, 25-18, 24-26, 25-21, 25-12) Netherlands win, leaving Netherlands first in Pool E with five points and Portugal second with one point.

Volleyball 18/05/2015

Canada "starting to come together" after two straight wins against Cuba

Calgary, Canada, May 17, 2015 - Canada beat Cuba 3-0 (26-24, 25-19, 25-21) in their Pool C FIVB World League match, earning a maximum six points form their first two matches, both against Cuba, of the 2015 tournament.

Volleyball 17/05/2015

Netherlands more enlightened in deciding moments

Matosinhos, Portugal, May 17, 2015 – For the second day in a row, Netherlands beat Portugal on the opening weekend of the FIVB World League – but they were made to work much harder for their 3-2 (17-25, 25-18, 24-26, 25-21, 15-12) victory on Sunday than for their 3-1 win on Saturday.

We did it despite passionate Portugal, says Dutch coach

Matosinhos, Portugal, May 16, 2015 – Coach Gido Vermeulen said he was pleased that his team managed to win in front of a passionate Portuguese crowd, after Netherlands beat Portugal 3-2 (17-25, 25-18, 24-26, 25-21, 15-12) in their second FIVB World League match of the weekend on Sunday.

Volleyball 17/05/2015

Netherlands edge past Portugal in thriller

Matosinhos, Portugal, May 17, 2015 – For the second day in a row, Netherlands beat Portugal on the opening weekend of the FIVB World League – but they were made to work much harder for their 3-2 (17-25, 25-18, 24-26, 25-21, 15-12) victory on Sunday than for their 3-1 win on Saturday.

Volleyball 17/05/2015

Schmitt expects Cuba to come back hard after first-up loss in Calgary

Calgary, Canada, May 16, 2015 - Giant Canada opposite Gavin Schmitt scored a game-high 17 points in their 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 26-24) Pool C win against Cuba on Saturday and he expects the visitors to come back hard in the follow-up match on Sunday.

Volleyball 16/05/2015

World League opens with victories for the Netherlands and Canada

Calgary, Canada, May 16, 2015 - The wait is over and the best men’s volleyball players on the planet have taken to the court for the start of the FIVB World League 2015. On the opening night, Netherlands beat Portugal 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-20) in Matosinhos, Portugal, while Canada beat Cuba 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 26-24) in Calgary, Canada.

Volleyball 16/05/2015

Schmitt powers Canada to opening win against Cuba

Calgary, Canada, May 16, 2015 - A typically powerhouse performance from Gavin Schmitt has guided Canada to a straight-sets win against Cuba in the opening match of their FIVB World League 2015 campaign. Schmitt scored a game-high 17 points and fittingly earned the final kill of the match to help Canada win the Pool C match 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 26-24).

Volleyball 16/05/2015

Netherlands overcome Portugal as World League gets underway

Matosinhos, Portugal, May 16, 2015 – Netherlands beat Portugal 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-20) in the opening match of the 2015 FIVB World League.

Volleyball 16/05/2015

New players helped us to win, says Netherlands coach

Matosinhos, Portugal, May 16, 2015 – Netherlands Coach Gildo Vermeulen said that his new recruits helped his side to their opening day 3-1 win over Portugal in the World League.

Volleyball 16/05/2015

Canada start season with World League in Calgary

Calgary, Canada, May 16, 2015 – The Canadian men’s volleyball team’s action-packed season kicks off this weekend, with matches on May 16 and 17 at the Corral at Stampede Park.

Volleyball 15/05/2015

Portugal are eyeing home success in opener against Netherlands

Portugal and Netherlands are perfectly balanced having won three matches each in their meet-ups at the World League. Portugal are hoping to turn their luck around by grabbing a win at home in Matosinhos after losing eight of their previous 10 World League matches in their home city.

Volleyball 15/05/2015

World League volleyball begins for Canada in Calgary

Calgary, Canada, May 15, 2015 - This weekend kicks off the Canadian men’s volleyball team’s action-packed season with two matches (May 16 and 17) at the Corral at Stampede Park in Calgary.

Volleyball 14/05/2015

Portugal and Netherlands seek to gain edge in Pool E

Porto, Portugal, May 14, 2015 – The stage is set at the Centro de Desportos e Congressos de Matosinhos, where the home team and the Netherlands will face in the opening weekend of the FIVB Volleyball World League in Pool E, with their thoughts focused on a common goal – victory.