In a sport where top-tier success is often fleeting, the Italian women`s national volleyball team continues to redefine what it means to dominate. Securing their third consecutive Volleyball Nations League (VNL) title in Łódź, Poland, the Azzurre not only solidified their position atop the FIVB World Rankings but also etched their name deeper into the annals of volleyball history. Their decisive 3-1 victory (22-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-22) over perennial powerhouses Brazil in a thrilling final was less a surprise and more a confirmation of an unfolding dynasty.
The Final Showdown: Resilience Against Rivalry
The gold medal match at the Atlas Arena was, for a brief moment, a test of nerves. Brazil, known for their tenacious spirit, took the opening set, hinting at a potential upset. However, Italy`s response was swift and unyielding. What followed was a masterclass in tactical adjustments and sheer mental fortitude, as the reigning Olympic champions systematically dismantled their opponent`s game, claiming the next three sets with an almost surgical precision. One might wonder if Brazil, with their four VNL silver medals, are beginning to consider if their destiny is forever gilded in second place when Italy is on the other side of the net.
Key to Italy`s comeback was the remarkable performance of **Ekaterina Antropova**, who came off the bench to replace the Paris Olympics MVP, Paola Egonu, delivering an impressive 18 points (13 kills, four blocks, one ace). This substitution was not merely a change in personnel; it was a demonstration of Italy`s unparalleled squad depth and tactical flexibility. Complementing this, **Myriam Sylla** delivered what her coach described as her best VNL 2025 performance, contributing 16 points through 13 kills and three crucial blocks. Even an injury to outside hitter Alice Degradi in the second set couldn`t derail the Italian juggernaut, as 21-year-old **Stella Nervini** stepped in seamlessly, adding seven points.
“We didn`t play our best volleyball, but we fought the entire time and our bench players were able to come in and make a difference for us. I`m very proud of the group. This is a special group of players, which has a lot of talent, but also a great mentality and the willingness to work hard every day.” – Head Coach Julio Velasco.
A Dynasty Forged in Consistency and Depth
Italy`s triumph in Łódź marks their third VNL title, following victories in 2022 and 2024. This achievement places them alongside the United States as the only national teams to have won the women`s VNL on three separate occasions. Their journey to the 2025 title was nothing short of flawless, boasting a campaign record of 15 victories and a mere eight sets lost. This level of consistency is truly exceptional in elite international sports, making their current 29-match undefeated streak across all international competitions a remarkable feat.
The core of this Italian success story lies in stability and shared experience. Eight players have been present for all three VNL triumphs: setter **Alessia Orro**, opposite **Paola Egonu**, outside hitters **Myriam Sylla, Alice Degradi, and Loveth Omoruyi**, middle blocker **Anna Danesi**, and liberos **Monica De Gennaro and Eleonora Fersino**. This nucleus of talent, combined with the strategic brilliance of Head Coach Julio Velasco, has fostered an environment where individual brilliance synergizes with collective resilience.
Statistically, Italy showcased superiority across the board in the final, outscoring Brazil in kills (58 to 45), blocks (14 to 12), and aces (three to two). While they did commit more errors (28 to 22), their ability to generate more decisive points ultimately proved the difference. This suggests a team confident enough to take risks and powerful enough to absorb the consequences.
What Lies Ahead for the Reigning Champions?
With their third VNL trophy now securely in the cabinet, the focus for Italy, and indeed for the entire international volleyball community, shifts to the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Thailand, scheduled from August 22 to September 7. Both Italy and Brazil are widely anticipated to be among the primary contenders for gold, setting the stage for potentially more enthralling encounters.
The Italian women`s volleyball team has not just won a tournament; they have established a formidable era. Their blend of star power, tactical acumen, and unwavering team spirit has made them virtually unstoppable. The question isn`t if Italy will compete, but rather, who will finally manage to break their remarkable stride and challenge their unyielding grip on women`s international volleyball.
Rupert Caldwell