The Polish women’s volleyball team defeated Thailand 3:0 in the Nations League match held in Hong Kong. This victory marks the tenth win for Stefano Lavarini’s squad, who are set to face China in the final match of the third tournament on Sunday at 2:30 PM.
From the onset, the Polish team showcased their superiority on the court, though the scoreline didn’t fully capture their dominance due to several service errors in the first set. Despite these mishaps, Poland secured a six-point streak at 11:10, excelling in both attack and defense. The Thai team struggled to keep up, faltering particularly at the net against the physically superior Polish players. By the end of the first set, the Poles led by ten points (22:12), effectively sealing the set.
The second set was notably more competitive. This time, Martyna Czyrniańska took on the scoring mantle from Magdalena Stysiak. The 20-year-old outside hitter was impeccable in attack, and her service ace brought the score to 13:10 for Poland. The Thai team, however, skillfully navigated around Poland’s blocks, keeping the score close. At 21:20, a service reception error by Natalia Mędrzyk gave Thailand a brief lead, prompting an uncharacteristic outburst from the usually composed coach Lavarini. Motivated by their coach’s reaction, the Polish team executed three nearly flawless plays to regain control. Stysiak’s decisive block and subsequent powerful spike ended Thailand’s resistance, securing the set.
Before the third set, Lavarini made several substitutions, bringing in Katarzyna Wenerska, Malwina Smarzek, Klaudia Alagierska, and second libero Justyna Łysiak. These changes did not disrupt Poland’s rhythm. Smarzek, recalling her past form as a team leader, delivered powerful attacks, while Czyrniańska maintained her high effectiveness, scoring a total of 18 points in the match. Poland quickly established a commanding lead of 16:8, and the outcome of the match was no longer in doubt.
Poland triumphed with set scores of 25:15, 25:13, and 25:17, leaving no room for a Thai comeback. This dominant performance sets a high bar for their upcoming clash with China, promising an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
Final Score: Poland 3 – Thailand 0 (25:15, 25:13, 25:17)