Azzurre Advance to Quarterfinals as Egonu Overpowers Opponents
Lodz, Poland – August 30, 2025 – The Italian women’s volleyball team delivered a commanding performance, defeating Germany 3-0 in the round of 16 at the 2025 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship, securing their spot in the quarterfinals. The Azzurre, led by star opposite Paola Egonu, overwhelmed the Germans with superior power and precision, showcasing why they remain one of the sport’s elite teams. Egonu’s explosive attacks and serving prowess proved decisive, as Italy advanced with a straight-sets victory (25-19, 25-22, 25-20) in front of a packed crowd at the Atlas Arena in Lodz.
This win marks Italy’s third consecutive appearance in the quarterfinals of the World Championship, following strong showings in 2018 and 2022. The victory extends their unbeaten streak in the tournament to five matches, positioning them as favorites to contend for a medal. Coach Julio Velasco praised his team’s focus: “We played with heart and intelligence today. Paola was unstoppable, but it was a total team effort.” The Azzurre will face the winner of the Japan vs. Turkey match in the quarters, with the tournament progressing toward the semifinals in the Polish capital.
Match Highlights: Egonu’s Dominance Seals the Deal
From the opening serve, Italy set the tone, with Egonu anchoring the offense. The 26-year-old, who stands at 1.93 meters and plays for Vero Volley Monza in Serie A1, tallied a match-high 22 points, including 18 kills on 32 attacks (56% efficiency) and four aces. Her serving was particularly devastating, disrupting Germany’s reception and forcing errors. “I just wanted to play my game and help the team advance. The Germans fought hard, but we were ready,” Egonu said post-match, her performance earning her Player of the Match honors.
The first set saw Italy surge to an 8-4 lead early, thanks to Egonu’s back-to-back aces and middle blocker Cristina Chirichella’s blocks. Germany, led by captain Louisa Lippmann (12 points), mounted a comeback but faltered on serve receive, allowing Italy to close it out 25-19. In the second set, the Germans tightened their defense, but Egonu’s spikes from the right side—often hitting 110 km/h—proved impenetrable, giving Italy a 25-22 edge. The third set was the closest, with Germany tying at 20-20, but Egonu’s final kill and an ace from setter Monica De Gennaro sealed the sweep.
Italy’s defense was stellar, with 12 blocks led by Chirichella (4) and Miriam Sylla (3), while receiver opposite Sylla contributed 14 points. Germany’s errors, totaling 28 (compared to Italy’s 18), were costly, as the team struggled against Italy’s high ball. The match lasted 1 hour and 28 minutes, with Italy converting 48% of attacks versus Germany’s 42%.
Path to the Quarterfinals: Azzurre’s Tournament Journey
Italy entered the knockout stage after topping Pool C with a 3-0-0 record, defeating the Dominican Republic, Belgium, and Kenya in the group phase. Their balanced roster, blending youth and experience, has been key: Egonu provides firepower, while veterans like De Gennaro (assists leader with 28 in the match) orchestrate the offense. The team, silver medalists at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is chasing their first World Championship title since 2002.
Germany, who finished second in Pool D, showed promise but couldn’t match Italy’s intensity. The loss ends their campaign, with Lippmann noting, “Italy is a powerhouse; we gave everything, but their attacks were too strong.” The Germans, bronze medalists in 2023, will look to regroup for future tournaments.
The quarterfinal matchup promises excitement, as Japan and Turkey—both undefeated in their pools—battle for the right to face Italy. A win there could set up a semifinal clash with powerhouses like Brazil or the USA. Velasco remains optimistic: “We’re building momentum. The quarterfinals will be tough, but we’re prepared.”
Broader Context: A Global Stage in Poland
The 2025 World Championship, co-hosted by Poland and the Netherlands, features 24 teams vying for glory from August 22 to September 7. Poland’s Atlas Arena has been electric, with sold-out crowds boosting the atmosphere. Italy’s advancement highlights Europe’s strength in women’s volleyball, alongside Serbia and the Netherlands. The Azzurre’s success also boosts morale ahead of the 2026 European Championship.
Fans on social media celebrated Egonu’s performance, with one X post stating: “Egonu is a beast! Italy cruises to quarters—watch out, world!” As the tournament heats up, Italy’s blue wave continues to make waves.
Sources: FIVB Official Website, Volleyball World, Gazzetta dello Sport, X Posts