The Netherlands women`s national volleyball team has successfully advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIVB World Championship. They achieved this milestone after a dramatic 3-2 victory against Serbia in the Round of 16, with set scores of 27-25, 26-24, 22-25, 20-25, and 15-11.
This win held particular significance for the Dutch squad. In the 2018 World Championship, they recorded their best-ever finish, placing fourth, but their journey was ended by Serbia in the semifinals. This time, competing in Thailand, the Netherlands turned the tables on the defending champions, securing their progression.
The Dutch dominated the initial two sets, winning both by narrow margins and demonstrating remarkable composure during crucial closing points. Nika Daalderop and Dambrink were instrumental in leading the offense, giving the Netherlands an early, crucial advantage.
Despite the early setback, Serbia, even without their captain Tijana Bošković, showed formidable resilience. Uzelac delivered an inspiring performance, accumulating an impressive 31 points and single-handedly keeping Serbia`s hopes alive. After conceding the first two sets, Serbia mounted a strong comeback in the third and fourth, tightening their block and serving with aggressive intent. This powerful resurgence leveled the score, pushing the match into a decisive fifth set.
The final set was a true test of endurance and nerve. Serbia continued their fierce resistance, but the Netherlands demonstrated superior balance and depth, ultimately prevailing with a 15-11 scoreline. Daalderop finished with 19 points, while Dambrink contributed 17, with their combined offensive power and solid team defense proving just enough to clinch the victory.
For Serbia, this defeat marks the end of their quest for a third consecutive world title, though their valiant comeback in Bošković`s absence highlighted their determination. For the Netherlands, this triumph represents another significant achievement. Having emerged as pool winners and now quarterfinalists, they remain firmly in contention for what could be their inaugural World Championship medal.
Finley Blackwood 
Jasper Thornfield