In the challenging Pool C, only two nations—France, Argentina, Finland, or Korea—will advance to the high-stakes elimination rounds.
Following the exciting conclusion of the women`s tournament, the global spotlight now turns to the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men`s World Championship. Thirty-two elite men`s teams are poised to begin their quest for global supremacy, with the action set to commence this Friday.
For the very first time, the Philippines, a nation with a passionate volleyball following, proudly hosts the World Championship. The prestigious Smart Araneta Coliseum and SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila will serve as the battlegrounds for all 66 matches from September 12 to 28.
Tournament Format: A New Era
This 21st edition marks a significant new era for the tournament. The world title will now be contested biennially, bringing together 32 national teams in a more frequent and expanded format.
The competition is structured into eight pools, each comprising four teams. During the pool play phase, from September 12 to 18, each team will play against their three group opponents. Only the top two teams from each pool will earn a coveted spot in the knockout stages. The Round of 16 is scheduled from September 20-23, followed by the quarterfinals on September 24-25. The semifinals will take place on September 27, culminating in the medal matches on September 28.
As fans worldwide prepare to follow every spike and block, we offer a comprehensive look at each of the eight pools, starting with Pool C.
Pool C: The Contenders
Match Schedule for Pool C
- September 14: Argentina vs. Finland – 10:30 local time (2:30 GMT)
- September 14: France vs. Korea – 18:00 local time (10:00 GMT)
- September 16: Argentina vs. Korea – 10:30 local time (2:30 GMT)
- September 16: France vs. Finland – 18:00 local time (10:00 GMT)
- September 18: Finland vs. Korea – 10:30 local time (2:30 GMT)
- September 18: France vs. Argentina – 18:00 local time (10:00 GMT)
France: Olympic Gold Medalists Aiming for World Crown
The reigning two-time Olympic champions, France, secured their spot in the World Championship by winning bronze at the 2023 European Championship. This marks their 18th appearance in the tournament, having first competed in 1949 and only missing three editions (1962, 1994, 1998). Their sole podium finish at this event was a bronze medal in 2002.
Under the guidance of Italian legend Andrea Giani since 2022, France currently holds the fourth position in the FIVB World Ranking. The team`s roster for the Philippines includes talented setters Benjamin Toniutti and Antoine Brizard, powerful opposite Jean Patry, dynamic outside hitter Trévor Clévenot, and defensive maestro Jenia Grebennikov. The team is also closely monitoring the recovery of star outside hitter Earvin Ngapeth, who sustained a knee injury during training, hoping for his confirmation to play.
Argentina: South American Champions Ready for Global Challenge
Argentina booked their ticket to the World Championship after a historic victory at the 2023 South American Championship, their first title in 59 years. This will be their 13th participation, with their debut in 1960 and a notable bronze medal finish in 1982.
Ranked ninth in the FIVB World Ranking, the South American squad is led by head coach Marcelo Méndez, who has been at the helm since 2019. Despite the recent departure of leading scorer Bruno Lima, the team welcomes back star setter Luciano De Cecco, who missed the Volleyball Nations League. Other pivotal players include middle blocker Agustín Loser, outside hitter Luciano Palonsky, and libero Santiago Danani.
Finland: A Determined Return to the World Stage
Finland earned their return to the World Championship by qualifying as one of the top 15 teams in the FIVB World Ranking not yet qualified through other means. This will be their ninth appearance, with their first dating back to 1952. Their best performance to date was a ninth-place finish in 2014.
Coached by former national player Olli Kunnari since 2024, Finland currently stands 18th in the FIVB World Ranking. Veteran setter Eemi Tervaportti provides crucial experience, while key offensive and defensive players include opposite Joonas Jokela, outside hitter Luka Marttila, middle blocker Petteri Tyynismaa, and libero Voitto Köykkä.
Korea: Back After a Decade, Seeking Semifinal Glory
Korea secured the final World Championship berth through the FIVB World Ranking, marking their return to the tournament after an 11-year absence. This will be their tenth appearance on the world stage, having first competed in 1956. Their most successful run saw them reach the semifinals, finishing fourth in 1978.
Under the leadership of Brazilian head coach Issanayê Ramires, who took charge last year, Korea is ranked 25th in the FIVB World Ranking. Outside hitter Heo Su-Bong is a highly experienced and vital asset to the team. Other core players contributing to the Korean strategy include setter Han Tae-Jun, middle blocker Choi Jun-Hyeok, and opposite Lim Dong-Hyeok.
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick