Ukraine regains confidence, outplays Algeria to stay in hunt

UKRAINE kept its flickering hopes alive by dominating Algeria, 25-17, 25-12, 15-11, on Tuesday for its first victory in two games at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Ranked No. 16 in the world, the Ukrainians used every tool at their disposal to outplay the Algerians, ranked No. 89, finally breaking into the win column with a 1-1 record in Pool F of the preliminary phase. The victory gives them a glimpse of hope for advancing to the Round of 16, which starts Saturday.

“It is a very important game for Ukraine because in our last five matches, we have won only one. It is very important for me, for my country. Our mentality might improve after the win. Not a good mentality before, but I think after this win we will be better,” said team captain and middle blocker Yurii Semeniuk.

Dmytro Yanchuk, Ukraine’s outside hitter, delivered 13 kills, two blocks, and three service aces for a total of 18 points, while Vasyl Tupchii added 12 points, highlighted by eight kills, two blocks, and two service aces. Semeniuk contributed 11 points on seven attacks and three blocks to lead the team.

Ukraine dominated in team statistics with attacks (39-20), blocks (13-7), service points (9-3), and opponent errors (14-10).

Their next assignment will be a daunting challenge against No. 2 Italy (1-0) on Thursday at 9:30 p.m., at the same venue, marking the last day of the preliminary stage.

The win over Algeria also served as a confidence boost following their opening defeat to Belgium, 16-25, 17-25, 22-25, last Sunday.

“We tried to play a full game and concentrate. The coach had good tactics, and we tried to relax and execute. The guys communicated effectively today, and some provided stability. That’s it—good tactics and concentration,” Yanchuk said.

Algeria, winless in two games after losing to Italy, 13-25, 22-25, 17-25, last Sunday, had no player reach double figures. Sidi Mohamed Dour led the team with nine points.

With their knockout hopes dashed, Algeria will face Belgium on Thursday at 2 p.m.