France had a tough course in the FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship but were headstrong on their goal of emerging on top
Lausanne, Switzerland, September 13, 2014 – France have guaranteed top six finish for the third time in their last four stints at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, after beating European neighbours Serbia.
Meanwhile, Brazil and Russia have emerged as winners over opponents Canada and Germany, respectively. The losing sides were also harnessing their own winning streaks but were unfortunately matched-up with the toughest teams in the competition.
Brazil, Russia and France have taken the three spots in the top six and will await the results of the matches on Sunday, as five teams are contesting on the remaining three spots.
Brazil improve win-streak – Brazil improved their World Championship winning streak to 12 matches, on the other hand, ending the six-match winning streak by Canada.
China back on winning track – After winning their first two matches and lost the succeeding matches China are back on the winning track with their 3-2 victory over Finland. Although these teams will no longer progress to the next round, it puts China to a positive mood against Cuba on Sunday. With the loss to China, Finland have suffered their third straight defeat.
Argentina regain confidence – Argentina completed a 3-1 victory over former world champions Italy to end their three-match losing streak, while Italy lost their fifth straight match. The five-match skid is their longest losing streak at the World Championship since 1986.
France in, Serbia out – France eliminated Serbia for the third round contention. The Frenchmen will finish in top six and have done this feat in three of their last four World Championship stints.
USA stay on track – USA won their fourth match in a row, earning their longest winning run since their eight straight victories from 1998 to 2002. Australia have now lost six of their last seven matches at the World Championship.
Cuba finally win 3-0 – Cuba won in straight sets against Bulgaria, a feat which they have not done in their previous 11 World Championship matches. Bulgaria have now lost four consecutive matches, their longest losing streak in the competition since 2002.
Russian record remains spotless – Russia have won in straight sets against Germany and remained undefeated at this edition of the World Championship. With the victory, Russia will play the decider against Brazil to decide on which team will remain unbeaten, entering the third round. Germany’s six-match winning streak has ended.
Poland strength tested in five-setter – Poland’s match against Iran went to five sets after having played 10 World Championship matches that needed three or four sets. Poland have ended the Iranians four-match winning streak.