Italy overwhelming: beat China 3-0, eighth consecutive win in VNL

Julio Velasco’s Italy continues to fly in the Volleyball Nations League and signs its eighth consecutive victory beating China in three sets (25-21, 32-30, 25-11). A clear and important success that closes the second week of the competition on a high note, confirming the Azzurre at the top of the standings and among the most solid candidates for the final title.

Against a young but ambitious China, the Italians presented themselves with some lineup changes: Stella Nervini on the court in place of Loveth Omoruyi and the return of Monica De Gennaro in the role of libero. For the rest, the Cambi-Egonu diagonal was confirmed, with Degradi the starting setter and the Fahr-Danesi pair at center.

The first set ended 25-21 thanks to a solid choral performance and an irrepressible Paola Egonu: 21 points at the end of the match, many of them literally shattering the Chinese wall with power and precision. The second partial was the most complicated: China responded with intensity and Tang’s entrance disrupted the Azzurri defensive certainties. It came down to advantages, but Italy managed to come out on top 32-30. This was thanks to two decisive plays signed by Alice Degradi (14 points overall) and a surprising Nervini (12 points). Nervini perfect in reception and courageous in attack.

The third set, on the other hand, was a true tricolor domination. Velasco also gave space to Linda Nwakalor, protagonist together with Cambi and Fahr of an insurmountable wall. The partial ended with a clear 25-11, sealing a performance that thrilled with quality, continuity and team spirit.

Moki De Gennaro’s great game should also be highlighted. She returned to the court with a flawless performance in terms of readings and placements, confirming once again that she is one of the best libero in the world.

Italy will now enjoy a two-week break. It will need to recover the injured Sylla and Orro, before returning to the court on July 9 against Belgium.