Two of the world’s premier setters shared the spotlight on Sunday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where Italy’s Simone Giannelli outclassed Argentina’s Luciano De Cecco to steer the defending champions back into the quarterfinals of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
The Italians prevailed in straight sets, 25-23, 25-20, 25-22, in a match that demanded their full focus and composure. Giannelli, the reigning tournament MVP, anchored the offense with precision as the Azzurri overcame Argentina’s relentless resistance.
For Giannelli, the duel carried special weight, as he once again faced De Cecco— a player he has battled countless times in the Italian league and one he considers among the best to ever play the position.
“For sure, it’s an honor for me to compete against him,” Giannelli said. “I’ve played against him for many years—unfortunately for me. He is an amazing player, one of the best setters of all time. Even now, he’s incredible. It’s very difficult to read him, very difficult to play against him at the net.”
Giannelli finished with 34 excellent sets to keep Italy’s offense humming, while De Cecco tallied 26 in a valiant effort to keep Argentina in contention.
The South Americans managed to push every frame to its limit, but Italy’s steadiness in the clutch proved decisive in the one-hour, 19-minute contest.
“It was a tough match. We were down 2-0, and it was very difficult for us. I’m very happy because we stayed present and focused on the court, every point,” Giannelli said. “We fought for every point, and I think that was the crucial factor for us.”
With Argentina now behind them, the Italians reach the quarterfinals set for September 24, where they will meet the winner of Belgium and Finland’s Round of 16 clash.
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