Iran defeats Serbia in dramatic clash to reach World Championship quarterfinals

Tehran - BORNA - In the round of 16 encounter held in Manila, coach Roberto Piazza’s men overcame Serbia 3–2 in a nail-biting contest (23–25, 25–19, 24–26, 25–22, 15–9), booking their place in the quarterfinals where they will face the Czech Republic.

The match showcased resilience and composure from Team Melli. Despite dropping the first set 23–25, Iran roared back in the second, winning 25–19 with powerful serves and blocks from key players such as Morteza Sharifi and Yusef Kazemi. Serbia edged the third set 26–24, but Iran responded with determination, capturing the fourth 25–22 thanks to strong plays from Ali Hajipour and libero Mohammadreza Hazratpour.

In the decisive tiebreak, Iran dominated early, with Hajipour’s aces and Kazemi’s sharp attacks setting the tone. Piazza’s squad maintained their momentum, closing out the set 15–9 and sparking celebrations as Iran sealed its place among the world’s elite eight.

Iran lineup: Morteza Sharifi, Mohammad Valizadeh, Arshia Behnejad, Ali Hajipour, Yusef Kazemi, Pouria Hosseinkhanzadeh, Mohammadreza Hazratpour

Head coach: Roberto Piazza

Serbia lineup: Aleksandar Stefanovic, Miran Koyundzic, Drazen Luburic, Nikola Jovovic, Pavle Peric, Aleksandar Nedeljkovic, Stefan Negic

Head coach: Gheorghe Cretu

The result marks a milestone for Iranian volleyball, reaffirming the team’s status as a rising force on the global stage. Iran will now face the Czech Republic, who eliminated Tunisia, in the quarterfinals as they continue their pursuit of World Championship glory.

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