Iran Faces Host Philippines and 20,000 Fans in Decisive World Championship Clash
Tehran - BORNA - According to the Iranian Volleyball Federation, the 21st edition of the World Championship opened on September 12 in Manila with the participation of 32 teams. Iran has recorded one win and one loss in its opening two games and will meet the Philippines on Thursday, September 18, at 1 p.m. Tehran time.
The Philippines, making its debut on the world stage as host, stunned African champion Egypt 3–1 in its previous match. Team captain Mark Espejo has urged fans to fill the arena, where more than 20,000 spectators are expected to create a formidable atmosphere against Iran.
For head coach Roberto Piazza’s squad, victory is essential to progress. A straight-sets win could even secure Iran top spot in the group, while other qualification scenarios will depend on the outcome of Egypt vs. Tunisia.
Historically, Iran and the Philippines have met twice, with Iran victorious on both occasions. Their last encounter dates back to the 1995 Asian Championship, when Iran won in straight sets. Currently ranked 15th in the FIVB standings with 211.72 points, Iran holds a clear advantage over the Philippines, ranked 77th with 39.83 points.
The Philippines, guided by Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, has never qualified for the Olympics, the World League, or the Nations League. However, with Ramon Suzara at the helm of its volleyball federation and as president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation, the country is seeking to expand its global presence.
Both Iran and the Philippines, alongside Tunisia and Egypt, enter the final day of group play with one win apiece and three points each. Two teams will advance to the knockout stage.
Iran’s 14-player roster in Manila includes: Morteza Sharifi (captain), Ali Ramazani, Arshia Behnejad, Ali Hajipour, Bardia Saadat, Mohammad Valizadeh, Seyed Isa Naseri, Yousef Kazemi, Amirhossein Esfandiar, Ehsan Daneshdoust, Pouria Hosseinkhanzadeh, Ali Haqparast, Mohammadreza Hazratpour, and Arman Salehi.
Piazza held a weight training session for several starters and a ball session for the rest of the squad on Wednesday to maximize readiness ahead of the decisive clash.
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