The Netherlands leaned on its firepower from the service line to turn back Qatar, 25-18, 25-23, 26-28, 25-23, in Pool B of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The Dutch squad, ranked World No.12, outgunned the Qataris with nine service aces against just two, while also holding the edge in attacks, 57-52.
Opposite Michiel Ahyi led the charge with 20 points built on 14 kills, three aces, and three blocks. Meanwhile, outside hitter Tom Koops hammered the match-winner to finish with 17 markers, including two aces.
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Birthday boy Bennie Tuinstra made his presence felt with three aces toward a 15-point outing. Middle blocker Fabian Plak delivered a highly efficient performance, converting 90-percent of his attempts and adding three blocks and one ace for 13 points.
“After the third set, we started the fourth set giving a lot of energy again. We fought for every ball and that worked out for us,” said Tuinstra, who celebrated his 25th birthday with a crucial win.
“We kept the concentration in the fourth set, and I think that’s why we won. I’m very happy with that.”
Despite the loss, Qatar — ranked 21st in the world — pushed the Netherlands to the limit, taking the third set behind their steady defense and timely counterattacks.
Koops acknowledged that the win is just the start, stressing that the Dutch must remain locked in ahead of their second assignment against Romania.
“Our next opponent is also strong. You cannot underestimate any players,” said Koops. “We still have to play our own game, and that is gonna decide if we’re gonna win again.”
With the victory, the Netherlands secured full three points to open their campaign, while Qatar fell to 0-1 in Pool B.
The Middle Eastern squad matched their foes in blocks at nine apiece and committed fewer errors, 26-29.
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Veteran opposite Youssef Oughlaf paced the team with 17 points, while outside hitters Ribeiro Renan and Nikola Vasic chipped in 11 each.
