DOMINICAN REPUBLIC versus ITALY

 

The Italians clobbered the strong Dominicans in 3 straight sets last night 25-23, 25-17, 25-20.

Despite of a strong lead from the Dominicans in the opening set, the Italians made their run in the mid-part of the game. Thanks to Valentina Diouf who scored 19 points in the entire game. It was an easy win for Italy in the second set due to reception errors from the Dominicans. In the third set, Dominican Republic showed their determination to steal a win but they didn't have enough juice to have it. Italy will face Russia and Dominican Republic will play against the Olympic champ, Brazil in the semifinals today.

ITALY versus GERMANY in Montreux

After a defeat in an epic 5-setter match against Japan, the Italians found their most comfortable momentum against Germany last night.

The Italians outsmarted the Germans in 3 straight sets, (3-0) 25-11, 27-25, 25-20.  In the opening set, it was an easy win for the Italians because of too many errors from the Germans. It was a close set 2 but the Italians went ahead, 27-25. After an early lead by the Germans, the Italians made their run and tied the scores. There was a see-saw of scores but reception errors helped Italy to win the set.