Brazil triumphed over a resilient France in a hard-fought quarterfinal match at the Women`s World Championship, earning their spot in the semifinals against formidable Italy.
Powerful Brazil is poised for an epic semifinal showdown against Italy at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Thailand this Saturday. Brazil secured this coveted spot after a grueling quarterfinal victory against a determined and spirited French team in Bangkok on Thursday.
The quarterfinal match against France was filled with intense moments, particularly in the first two sets, both pushed into extended play. In the opening set, France impressively overcame a four-point deficit, saved two set points, but eventually succumbed to Brazil on the third attempt. The second set saw France initially take a four-point lead, only for Brazil to mount a comeback and reach set point first. France then rallied with three consecutive points, creating five opportunities to clinch the set, but failed to convert. Brazil ultimately prevailed in a thrilling 33-31 finish. The third set remained competitive until an 11-11 tie, after which Brazil pulled ahead decisively. Outside hitter Julia Bergmann sealed the commanding 3-0 victory for Brazil with scores of 27-25, 33-31, 25-19.
Roberta Ratzke, Brazil`s setter, masterfully orchestrated the team`s offense, enabling all five of her spikers to achieve double-digit scores. Julia Bergmann led with an impressive 17 points, all from attacks. Captain Gabriela Guimaraes (Gabi) contributed 13 points, including an ace. Opposite Rosamaria Montibeller added 12 successful spikes with a 63% attack efficiency. Middle blockers Diana Alecrim (80% attack success, 1 ace) and 22-year-old Julia Kudiess (64% success) each scored 10 points. Notably, their combined eight kill blocks – five from Alecrim and three from Kudiess – were crucial to the team`s defense.
“First and foremost, congratulations to France! They`ve done an incredible job, quickly becoming a formidable team that fights relentlessly and plays with evident joy,” Bergmann expressed to VBTV. “However, I`m overjoyed by our victory. We earned this; we battled for every point. Our improvement since the start of the VNL has been remarkable. It`s truly inspiring to see how far we`ve come and our potential for further growth. I am immensely proud of my team.”
The charismatic outside hitter and captain, Helena Cazaute, once again demonstrated exceptional leadership for France, leading her team with a match-high 20 points, including an ace and a kill block. She currently holds a commanding 10-point lead as the World Championship`s top scorer. Opposite Iman Ndiaye added 15 points, all from spikes, while outside hitter Amelie Rotar contributed 10 points, featuring a block.
“Losing is undeniably tough, especially considering our performance throughout this tournament. It feels disheartening right now, but I believe we can be proud of our achievements at this World Championship,” Ndiaye reflected. “Witnessing this group`s progress, I`m content with where we stand. Brazil is clearly a powerful team, and we were determined to give our absolute best on the court.”
The final quarterfinal match in Bangkok will feature the USA against Turkiye, scheduled for later on Thursday at 20:30 local time (13:30 UTC).
Oliver Wrenwick 
Jasper Thornfield