The Men`s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines witnessed a dramatic third day of preliminary action across Pools A, C, F, and H. A major upset saw Czechia dominate Serbia with a straight-sets victory, marking a stunning start to their tournament.
Pool A Highlights
In Pool A, Egypt delivered a significant upset by defeating Iran 3-1 (17-25, 25-16, 23-25, 20-25) in their opening 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship match in Pasay City. Key Egyptian players included outside hitters Ahmed Shafik Said (18 points, 62% attack efficiency) and Abdelrahman Elhossiny (17 points, 65% efficiency), supported by opposite Seif Abed (12 points). Egypt led in spike kills (52-45) and aces (8-4), while Iran had more blocks (10-7) and fewer unforced errors (24 vs. 26). For Iran, Ali Hajipour scored 17 points (3 blocks, 1 ace), and Poriya Khanzadeh added 12 points (3 aces, 2 blocks).
Pool C Highlights
Pool C saw France, the reigning Olympic champions, kick off their 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship campaign in Quezon City with a dominant 3-0 sweep (25-12, 25-18, 25-16) over Korea. Argentina also won against Finland 3-2 (19-25, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-11). France excelled in all aspects against Korea, leading in spike kills (35-28), blocks (10-4), and aces (10-0), while also capitalizing on more opponent errors. Jean Patry was the top performer with 16 points (3 aces, 2 blocks) and an impressive 73% attack success rate. Heo Subong led Korea with 9 points. Patry emphasized the importance of enjoying their play and starting with high energy, especially as some players consider this their final tournament together.
Pool F Highlights
In Pool F, Belgium, known as the Red Dragons, secured a commanding 3-0 sweep (16-25, 17-25, 22-25) against Ukraine in their opener at Smart Araneta Coliseum. Italy also had a decisive 3-0 victory over Algeria (25-13, 25-22, 25-17). Ferre Reggers, the 22-year-old opposite spiker, was instrumental for Belgium, scoring a match-high 23 points (20 attacks, 3 blocks). He was well-supported by Seppe Rotty (13 points) and team captain Sam Deroo (12 points), who recently returned from surgery. Belgium also demonstrated superior blocking, recording 10 blocks to Ukraine`s 5. This decisive victory gives Belgium strong momentum as they prepare to face reigning world champions Italy on September 16.
Pool H Highlights
Pool H delivered the biggest surprise as Czechia, ranked 21st globally, stunned 12th-ranked Serbia with a dominant 3-0 win (22-25, 23-25, 20-25). Brazil also defeated China 3-1 (19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-21). This victory elevated Czechia three spots to 18th in the FIVB World Rankings, while Serbia fell to 13th. Despite Serbia`s brief early leads, Czechia largely controlled the sets. Their statistical advantages included a 4-0 lead in aces, a slight edge in spike kills (45-43), and fewer unforced errors (17 vs. 23). Patrik Indra was the match`s top scorer with 14 attack points and a 64% success rate, securing the final point. Lukas Vasina contributed 13 points, half of which were aces. For Serbia, Pavle Peric scored 14 points, and opposite Drazen Luburic added 12.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood