After a shaky start, World No.1 Poland roared back to dominate The Netherlands, securing a 22-25, 25-23, 25-19, 25-22 victory on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
The opening set saw the Poles struggle, unable to find their usual rhythm, as the Dutch capitalized on every mistake.
But Poland regrouped in the second set, steadily gaining control and forcing The Netherlands into costly errors over the third and fourth frames.
The win ensured Poland finished atop Pool B with a flawless 3-0 record, punching their ticket to the Round of 16.
Team captain Bartosz Kurek led the charge with 16 kills, two blocks, and a service ace, totaling 19 points.
Outside hitter Kamil Semeniuk contributed 15 points, highlighted by four sharp serves, while Tomasz Fornal added 15 points from 10 attacks, three blocks, and two aces.
“Confidence is always in the same place. We know what we are capable of doing. It is just a matter of showing it on the court,” said 37-year-old Kurek, a four-time Olympian.
“We must expect a very similar game from Canada. They will put pressure from the service line and play smart in attack, so it will be tough. I hope we find a way to get through.”
Canada, ranked ninth, finished second in Pool G after falling to Turkiye, 21-25, 16-25, 25-27.
Poland will face the Canadians on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena at 3:30 PM. Meanwhile, The Netherlands — led by Michiel Ahyi’s 23 points — will clash with Turkiye at 8:00 PM.
Poland’s comeback showcased its championship pedigree and resilience, signaling that the world’s top team is ready for the knockout stages.
