Italy reach final to defend FIVB World Championship 2025 title
The FIVB World Championship 2025 in the Philippines saw Italy reaffirm their status as the team to beat, cruising to a straight-sets victory over Poland in the semi-finals. With a 3-0 win (25-21, 25-22, 25-23), the Azzurri moved one step from a historic back-to-back title and set up a final showdown against Bulgaria. The result keeps Italy’s dream of lifting the trophy again very much alive as the world’s top-ranked side looks to crown a remarkable two-year reign.
Historically one of volleyball’s most storied nations, Italy now has a tangible path to equaling the all-time record of six world titles held by the Soviet Union. The semi-final win extended their dominance at the tournament and reminded supporters why Italy has been the form team in recent seasons.
Dominant start, crisp execution
Italy began strongly, taking the first set by a four-point margin. The Azzurri used efficient serving and disciplined parsing of Poland’s attack to establish control early and never let the momentum slip away. The opening frame laid the groundwork for a match that, while not always easy, was controlled by the Italians from start to finish.
Set two: pressure kept on the world No. 1
The second set remained tight, with both teams trading punches and pushing the tempo. Italy found just enough rhythm to edge ahead and stretch their lead at crucial moments. The set importance grew as Poland pressed for a way back, but the Azzurri answered with steady defense and timely attacks to move 2-0 up in the match.
Poland’s late push denied in the end
The third set began with Poland enjoying an early 4-1 surge, signaling a potential momentum swing. Yet Italy responded with a seven-point swing as they moved ahead 10-5. The tie at 18-18 proved pivotal: Italy surged into a lead at 22-21 and then closed out the set 25-23. That sequence epitomized the balance, grit, and precision that have characterized Italy’s run at the World Championship 2025.
Bulgaria reach the final for the first time since 1970
Earlier in the day, Bulgaria secured their spot in the final with a 3-1 victory over Czechia (25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 25-22). It marked Bulgaria’s first return to the championship summit since co-hosting the event in 1970, a milestone that adds extra color to what promises to be a gripping title decider in the Philippines. The clash will pit the defending champions against a Bulgarian side that has risen impressively to claim their spot in the last act of the tournament.
What this final means for the history of the World Championship
With the final on the horizon, Italy sits just one win away from back-to-back world titles—a feat not achieved since 1998. The win also tightens the historical race for the all-time record, where the Soviet Union holds six titles. The 2025 edition in the Philippines has delivered a compelling narrative: two of volleyball’s most storied programs colliding in a winner-takes-all finale, while Bulgaria’s unlikely run adds a fresh layer of drama to the event.
Looking ahead to the final
As the World Championship 2025 moves into its final stage, all eyes will be on Italy as they bid to complete a remarkable title defense, while Bulgaria will chase a historic first crown on the world stage. The final promises to be a showcase of high-level volleyball, with both teams bringing championship pedigree and a hunger to etch their names into the annals of the sport.
