Pool A promises intense competition as host nation Philippines, along with powerhouses Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia, vie for the two coveted spots in the knockout stages.
Following the recent conclusion of the women`s championship, the highly anticipated 2025 FIVB Men`s Volleyball World Championship is set to commence this Friday. Thirty-two national teams are ready to embark on their quest for the coveted world title.
Making history, the Philippines, a nation with a deep passion for volleyball, will host the prestigious World Championship for the first time. The tournament will unfold across two iconic venues in Manila – the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena – hosting a total of 66 matches from September 12 to 28.
This 21st edition marks a new chapter for the tournament, now held biennially and featuring an expanded field of 32 national teams, all competing for the ultimate global prize.
The 32 formidable teams have been divided into eight pools, each comprising four nations. From September 12-18, each team will play their three pool opponents, with the top two from each pool progressing to the knockout stages. The Round of 16 is scheduled for September 20-23, followed by the quarterfinals on September 24-25. The semi-finals will take place on September 27, culminating in the medal matches on September 28.
As volleyball enthusiasts worldwide prepare to follow the action, we present a detailed preview of each of the eight preliminary pools, starting with Pool A.
Pool A
Match Schedule for Pool A
- September 12 – Philippines vs. Tunisia – 18:00 local time (10:00 GMT)
- September 14 – Iran vs. Egypt – 13:30 local time (5:30 GMT)
- September 16 – Iran vs. Tunisia – 13:30 local time (5:30 GMT)
- September 16 – Philippines vs. Egypt – 17:30 local time (9:30 GMT)
- September 18 – Egypt vs. Tunisia – 13:30 local time (5:30 GMT)
- September 18 – Philippines vs. Iran – 17:30 local time (9:30 GMT)
Philippines
As the host nation, the Philippines is poised to make its historic debut at the World Championship. This momentous event represents the country`s first major international participation, despite decades of competing in continental tournaments like the Asian Championship, Asian Games, and AVC Nations Cup.
Ranked 82nd in the FIVB World Ranking, the Filipino squad carries significant expectations under the guidance of seasoned Italian head coach Angiolino Frigoni, appointed in 2024. Key to their performance will be captain Marck Espejo, fellow outside hitter Bryan Bagunas, and prominent middle blocker Kim Malabunga.
Iran
Iran earned its place in the World Championship by securing a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Championship, claiming one of the continent`s three allocated berths. This marks their eighth appearance, following their debut in 1970, a return in 1998, and participation in every edition since 2006. Their most impressive performance was a sixth-place finish in 2014.
Ranked 13th globally by FIVB, Iran is coached by Italian Roberto Piazza, who commenced his tenure this season. Despite a recent setback with the injury of leading scorer Amin Esmaeilnezhad just before the tournament, the team will rely heavily on the offensive prowess of outside hitters Amirhossein Esfandiar and Morteza Sharifi.
Egypt
Egypt qualified for the World Championship by clinching their ninth African title in 2023, securing one of the continent`s three berths. Their journey in the tournament began in 1974, and they have since made nine more appearances, participating in every edition since 1994. Their highest achievement was a 13th-place finish in 2010.
Currently 23rd in the FIVB World Ranking, Egypt is under the guidance of experienced Italian coach Marco Bonitta, who is in his inaugural season with the team. Key players from their Paris Olympics squad last year, including libero Mohamed Reda and outside hitters Abdelrhman Elhossiny, Muhammed Asran, and Ahmed Azab Abdelrahman, are expected to form the core of their lineup.
Tunisia
Tunisia secured their place in the Philippines-hosted championship through their strong FIVB World Ranking. Celebrating over 60 years since their 1962 debut, this marks Tunisia`s 12th World Championship appearance and their seventh consecutive participation. Their best result came in 2006, where they finished 15th.
Holding the 43rd position in the FIVB World Ranking, Tunisia is led by the seasoned Italian coach Camilo Placi, who joined the team this season. The offensive contributions of opposite Hamza Nagga will be vital. Returning players from their Tokyo 2020 Olympic campaign, such as setter Khaled Ben Slimene, outside hitter Ilyès Karamosli, and middle blockers Ahmed Kadhi and Selim Mbareki, will provide crucial experience.
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick