European women's volleyball, Velasco's Italy starts with a 3-0 loss to Croatia: the analysis of the debut

The Italian women's volleyball team under coach Julio Velasco began their European Championship campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Croatia, securing a dominant start at the 2026 European Championships in Gothenburg. The match took place at the Scandinavium arena, where Italy’s squad showcased both strength and resilience, overcoming early challenges to maintain control throughout the three sets. The result marked a promising beginning for the Azzurre, who will face Montenegro in their next match on Saturday, August 22. Italy’s performance was characterized by a mix of dominance and moments of pressure. In the opening set, the Italians quickly asserted their superiority, building a commanding lead and maintaining a near-impenetrable defense. Key players such as Paola Egonu, Ekaterina Antropova, and Miriam Sylla played pivotal roles, supported by the tactical acumen of Alessia Orro in the playmaking role. The team’s ability to dominate the net and control the service allowed them to secure the first set 25-9, setting a strong tone for the match. However, the second set saw Croatia mount a determined challenge, managing to take a six-point lead at one stage. This moment tested the Italian resolve, forcing Velasco to make strategic adjustments. He introduced Elena Spirito into the lineup, aiming to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities. The shift proved effective as the Italians gradually regained momentum, with Egonu and Sylla leading the charge. A crucial turning point came when Egonu found her rhythm in attack, while Sylla’s powerful serves helped the team close the gap. The set ended with Italy prevailing 25-22, demonstrating their capacity to recover from setbacks. The third set followed a similar pattern, with Croatia showing tenacity but ultimately unable to overcome Italy’s consistency. The Italians maintained their attacking efficiency, particularly through Egonu and Antropova, who continued to provide reliable scoring. Croatia managed to reach a tie at 22-22, creating a tense finish, but Italy remained composed, capitalizing on key moments to seal the win 25-23. The victory highlighted the team’s adaptability and mental toughness, qualities essential for success in high-stakes competition. The match was further enriched by the presence of fans from across Sweden, supporting the Italian team with enthusiasm. President of the Italian Volleyball Federation, Giuseppe Manfredi, attended the game, underscoring the national significance of the tournament. The atmosphere inside the Scandinavium reflected the pride and anticipation surrounding the team’s debut, with supporters cheering enthusiastically throughout the contest. Despite the overwhelming victory, the Italian team faced some challenges during the match. Early in the game, they showed signs of vulnerability, which were addressed through tactical adjustments and individual performances. The ability to respond effectively to Croatian pressure demonstrated the depth of talent within the squad and the coaching staff’s preparedness for competitive scenarios. Looking ahead, the Italian team has little time to rest before facing Montenegro in the next round of Group D. With the tournament demanding continuous peak performance, the team must build on this solid foundation. The upcoming match presents another opportunity to strengthen their position in the group and continue their successful campaign in Gothenburg.