Three-time world champion Brazil shook off a sluggish opening frame before storming back to defeat China, 19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-21, to notch its first win in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Sunday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The South Americans, who are chasing a return to the podium after finishing short in the last edition, collected all three points to open their Pool H campaign.
Earlier in the day, Czechia stunned Serbia in straight sets, leaving both the Brazilians and Czechs tied atop the standings.
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Young gun Artur Bento led Brazil’s balanced attack with 17 points on 15 kills, a block, and an ace.
Middle blocker Judson Nunes backed him up with 14 points, highlighted by four blocks, while veteran opposite Alan de Souza chipped in 13.
Ricardo Lucarelli and Flávio Gualberto also reached double digits with 10 apiece.
“It was a great way to start the tournament,” Lucarelli said. “It was a tough match because China came out playing differently from what we had seen in the Nations League.
“We struggled early, but once our serving improved, we found our rhythm and played the game we wanted.”
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China showed plenty of fight in its debut, stealing the opening set behind strong net play.
However, Brazil’s offensive depth proved decisive.
The South Americans dominated in kills (62-44) and held a slight edge in blocks (9-8), though China controlled the service line with a 5-1 advantage in aces.
Despite committing 34 errors to China’s 22, Brazil’s firepower was enough to seal the comeback.
Middle blocker Peng Shikun stood tall with 12 points, including three blocks, while outside hitter Liu Libin added 10 markers.
#WATCH: At 21, Arthur Bento was thrilled to make his starting debut for Brazil in #MWCH2025! 🇧🇷🏐
📹 @seol_gongchan /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/Ru5tNrNXe0
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 14, 2025
