The Spodek Arena had another full house for the semifinal match between Germany and Poland
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 20, 2014 – Brazil ended France’s hopes in a five-set match to gain ground for the title race with Poland; the hosts bested Germany 3-1 to make their third appearance in the final of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Saturday.
Brazil will be able to defend their title and could be the first team to win four World Championship titles in a row. The Brazilians held on in the thrilling fifth set to become the first finalists in this edition.
Poland likewise did not disappoint their thousands of supporters as they closed the doors on Germany in a four-set clash. The Polish side will be making get their third stint at the final and to have a repeat of their 2006 matchup with Brazil in the final match on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Russia commanded a straight sets victory over Iran, matching their 2010 finish in fifth place. The Russians have not won a medal for the third time in a row at the World Championship.
Brazil set for fourth consecutive title – Brazil’s 3-2 victory over France gave them the chance to reach the final for the fifth time and for the fourth time in a row. Brazil won the last three finals in 2002, 2006 and 2010, after having lost their first final in 1982. Their opponents France have lost their second semifinal appearance by a 3-2 scoreline. In 2002, the French team lost to Russia in a five-setter.
Poland’s third stint at the final – Poland have reached the final for the third time with their 3-1 victory over Germany. Their first appearance was in 1974 when they won the title, the second was in 2006 when they finished second to Brazil. The third time will be a rematch of 2006. Germany’s last five results have alternated to a W-L-W-L-W-L. The Germans then would have to battle for the bronze against France.
Russia’s 100th straight-sets win – Russia’s 3-0 victory against Iran have resulted to their 100th straight-sets victory at the World Championships and end their journey at the competition in fifth place. Iran’s sixth place finish, however, is their best ever after finishing 19th in the last edition. It is also the best for an Asian confederation team since Japan ended in fourth place in 1982.