Alessandro Michieletto (5) and Roberto Russo (11) react after defending champion Italy defeated Belgium, 25-13, 25-18, 25-18, in the quarterfinals of the FIVB Men’s World Championships at the SM Mall of Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (Sept. 24, 2025). Italy will face the winner between Poland and Turkiye in the semifinals on Saturday (Sept. 27). (Photo courtesy of philippineswch2025.com)
Defending champion Italy stamped its class to become the first semifinalist of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, dismantling Belgium in straight sets, 25-13, 25-18, 25-18, on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Middle blocker Robert Russo spearheaded the Italian charge with 12 points built on six attacks, four blocks, and two service aces. His all-around performance anchored Italy’s redemption after a five-set pool stage loss to the Belgians just nine days earlier at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Outside hitter Alessandro Michieletto added 11 points, highlighted by four booming aces, while Mattia Bottolo tallied 10, all from attacks. With the victory, Italy—also a three-time world champion in 1990, 1994, and 1998—set up a semifinal clash on Saturday against the winner of the Poland–Turkiye quarterfinal.
“We know Belgium is a strong team. We lost to them before, but it feels good to be in the semifinals,” said Russo. “Now we recover and prepare. For Italy, reaching the semis is important, and we’re very happy to be here.”
Belgium, which had stunned Italy earlier in the tournament, struggled to find its footing this time around. Opposite hitter Ferre Reggers delivered 13 points and six digs, while Sam Deroo chipped in 11 points from 10 attacks and an ace. Pieter Coolman and Mathijs Desmet added six points apiece.
“We tried and never gave up, but our level today was far from enough to trouble Italy,” said Deroo. “It’s disappointing to finish like this after a good run, but that’s how the game goes.”
Italy’s victory not only keeps its title defense alive but also underscores its status as one of volleyball’s enduring powerhouses.