Defending champion Italy leads the 16 teams advancing to the next round of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, which begins Saturday, September 20, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Italy will face a dangerous Argentina squad riding high after defeating back-to-back Olympic gold medalist France. The two nations collide on Sunday at 3:30 p.m.
“I'm very happy because we want to stay here, we want to continue to play this World Championship,” Italy’s Alessandro Michieletto said after their win over Ukraine on Thursday.
Before the reigning titlists see action, world No. 1 Poland takes on Team Canada on Saturday at 8 p.m., while Turkiye faces the Netherlands at 3:30 p.m.
Joining Italy on Sunday’s slate is streaking Belgium, which will face Finland in a clash of two sides brimming with confidence heading into the final phase at 8 p.m.
Fan-favorite USA goes up against Slovenia on Monday at 8 p.m., with the Americans aiming for a deep run in the tournament. Meanwhile, Bulgaria and Portugal battle for a quarterfinals spot in the other Monday matchup at 3:30 p.m.
On Tuesday, Tunisia and Iran look to advance against separate opponents. Tunisia tangles with the Czech Republic at 3:30 p.m., while Iran hopes to ride the momentum from its emotional win over Alas as it faces Serbia at 8 p.m.
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