Spain`s Cesar Irache kicked off the FIVB Volleyball Boys` U19 World Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with an extraordinary individual performance, immediately drawing global attention.
The 17-year-old left-handed opposite hitter delivered an astonishing 39 points in their opening match against Iran on Thursday. This remarkable tally, comprising 34 attack points, four aces, and a block, stands among the highest ever recorded at this championship level and showcased Irache`s pivotal role in Spain`s early offensive strategy.
Despite the impressive statistics, Irache remains focused on team success. “My only goal is to win, so I don`t concentrate on individual points,” he stated. “If achieving 39 points or even more is what it takes for us to secure the victory, then that`s what I`ll do.”
Widely regarded as one of Spain`s most promising talents, the young athlete recently signed with Superliga Masculina club Pamesa Teruel. His accolades include being named MVP at the WEVZA U18 Championship, where he led Spain to a gold medal, and becoming the youngest player ever invited to the Spanish senior team`s training camp for the European Golden League.
Now competing on the world stage in Tashkent, Irache is a key figure in a confident Spanish squad that emphasizes a pragmatic, game-by-game approach. “We tackle one match at a time,” he explained. “Our initial focus was on Iran, and now it shifts entirely to Egypt. It`s always about the very next game.”
This disciplined mindset has propelled Irache through Spain`s junior ranks, where he was recently honored as the best player in the Spanish Youth Championship. With his commanding height, powerful physique, and mature game sense, the 1.94-meter opposite is rapidly emerging as the fresh face of Spanish men`s volleyball.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone supporting Spain,” he concluded. “We are committed to giving our absolute best to clinch the World Championship title.”
If the opening day`s display is any indication, Cesar Irache and the Spanish team are just beginning their impressive journey.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood