The European squad now keenly awaits the outcome of the Cuba vs. United States match, which will ultimately decide their progression to the Round of 16.
Thrilling Five-Set Victory Secures Lifeline
Fighting fiercely for their survival at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men`s World Championship, Portugal showcased immense inner strength. They dramatically rallied from a two-set deficit to defeat Colombia on Wednesday, a crucial victory that keeps their aspirations for the Round of 16 firmly alive.
In the day`s opening match held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the Portuguese team clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory with set scores of 23-25, 21-25, 25-20, 25-21, 15-11. They had stared elimination directly in the face before mounting their impressive comeback.
Impact on Pool D Standings and Cuba`s Challenge
While the two points earned from this hard-fought win do not automatically secure Portugal`s progression, they are vital. The victory elevates Portugal to five points in Pool D, allowing them to surpass Cuba, who currently stand at three points, and claim second place. Cuba now faces a must-win scenario against the United States later on Wednesday. The USA has already secured their place in the elimination rounds with six points, meaning Cuba needs a victory to secure a top-two finish in the pool and advance.
Key Players and Their Contributions
Outside hitter Nuno Marques was the standout performer for Portugal, leading all scorers with an impressive 19 points, comprised of 13 kills, four blocks, and two aces. Opposite José Pinto followed closely with 16 points. Middle blockers Kelton Tavares and Filip Cveticanin also made significant contributions, each tallying 12 points for the Portuguese side.
“We knew that we needed to win to have a chance of advancing, and we got nervous at the start of the match,” Pinto revealed. “At some point, we realized we had to shake it off and start playing. Now we`ll get back to the hotel room and watch the Cuba and USA match, hoping things go our way.”
Colombia`s World Championship Journey Ends
For the Colombian team, opposite Ronald Jiménez and outside hitter Juan Felipe Benevides each scored 18 points. This defeat unfortunately marks the end of Colombia`s inaugural participation at the World Championship without securing a single victory.
“The experience here was very good,” reflected middle blocker and team captain Leandro Ararat. “Today, we got on the court determined to win. We played very well in the first two sets, but I think their experience helped them come back. We`re frustrated, but that`s sports.”
Match Statistics Highlight Portugal`s Net Dominance
Portugal demonstrated superior play at the net, outscoring Colombia in kills (61 to 60) and blocks (14 to eight). However, they were outmatched in aces (four to nine). Crucially, the Europeans also committed fewer errors throughout the match compared to their opponents (25 to 30), a factor that likely contributed to their comeback.
The highly anticipated encounter between Cuba and the United States, which will finalize Pool D`s competitive schedule in Pasay City, is set to commence at 17:30 local time (09:30 GMT).
Oliver Wrenwick 
Jasper Thornfield