Four French talents shine on the tournament`s Dream Team.
France successfully defended their title at the 2025 FIVB Boys’ U19 Volleyball World Championship, with their standout outside hitter, Andrej Jokanovic, being crowned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Outside Hitter. He spearheaded a group of four French athletes who made it onto the prestigious Dream Team.
Throughout the tournament in Tashkent, the 17-year-old Jokanovic displayed exceptional dominance. He amassed an impressive 158 points over nine matches, comprising 126 kills, 16 blocks, and 16 aces, achieving a remarkable hitting efficiency of nearly 47 percent.
The towering two-meter outside hitter consistently reached double-digit scores in every single match. His crucial 24-point performance in the final against Poland secured France`s second consecutive world championship title.
“It’s incredible. For the team to win this, we came here with high expectations and a lot of pressure. The beginning was not easy, but then we managed to play more as a team. These two prizes are incredible. It’s an amazing feeling, something you don’t experience many times in your life,” Jokanovic said.
Alongside Jokanovic on the esteemed Dream Team were fellow French players: outside hitter Noa Duflos Rossi, middle blocker Daniel Lyegbekedo, and libero Guillaume Respaut. Duflos Rossi was a constant source of powerful attacks from the left side, while Lyegbekedo commanded the middle with impactful finishes and vital blocks. Respaut served as the defensive anchor, demonstrating impeccable passing and astute reads during transitions.
Poland`s Madej Drag earned the Best Setter award for his masterful orchestration of their offense throughout the competition. Tymoleusz Lenik, another Polish talent, was recognized as a top middle blocker, delivering crucial performances at the net.
Spain’s Cesar Irache received the Best Opposite award, having led all scorers with an impressive 154 points. Notably, he delivered an explosive 38-point performance in the bronze medal match against Iran.
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick