Watching 2 matches at the same time is exhausting.
Try watching 4 at the same time, then we'll talk
Russia and France's level dropped since VNL, or has the other teams' simply improved?
There is something else that I want to point out. I mentioned at the tournament's start that it is common sometimes to start a bit "slower". It is a long event after all and you can't expose all your weapons and strength at the very beginning. That being said, I think France's level in general dropped a bit after 2017. They did fine at the VNL this year, but didn't have to travel much at all and suffered a heavy defeat in the final against Russia, probably the heaviest defeat they have suffered in a long while. Also, even during the greatest wins of 2015 and 2017, they played with an almost non-rotated, very well brought-together squad. Now they suffered some injuries, a normal drop of form, and opponents finding ways to beat them at times. So yes, it is normal for them not to be really dominating like they used to be in the past 2-3 seasons. However, they are very much alive and still have chances in this tournament, the real question is, obviously, whether Ngapeth and Boyer will endure the load.
I didn't watch SRB-RUS and I can't say anything about the match or how both teams played. I am 100% sure Serbia did everything possible to beat Russia, a team they have often prevailed against, and gather points for the next round. I can't really say the same about Russia. Once again, this is just my opinion. I would also fancy the prospect of facing the Netherlands and Finland, and even the hosts Italy, the latter they can surely beat. I can't say Russia's level dropped since the VNL, what changed is that the starting setter is now gone, which might play a minor role (minor because they still have Butko) and that there's a 2-month gap between the two tournaments. I am sure we should see the real Russian team, the one from the VNL, in the final round. I get the feeling they didn't really need to win vs. Serbia 100%. How would you explain Grankin's appearance otherwise? 2 sets against Serbia did them just fine Sure, they didn't mean to lose against USA, but they might get a rematch soon.
Display MoreSpeaking of Russia, after reviewing the second round pools, I think it was a blessing Russia lost the Serbia match as ITA/NED/FIN is arguably less tough than POL/FRA/ARG. All Russia needs to do is beat Finland and Ned and I think they are through the third round.. O am I missing something?
EDIT:
The four pool-winning teams of the second stage will access the third stage, together with the top two of the second ranked teams.
Exactly my thoughts! 3 wins for Russia and they will be through. I won't make a fuss about their defeat to Serbia.
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Vital Heynen might not be the most likeable person or coach in the world, even from a neutral persepective, but one can't help but appreciate his values as a coach. All his teams, and I really mean all I have watched in recent years, club and NT, are known for great game organization, transition, tactical preparation, and then eventually overall performance. He can't always win, of course, but he manages to get pretty close even with some unbalanced or limited teams/players. Honestly, I haven't been impressed with the Polish team since 2014, but it is a joy to watch them now. I am not saying they will become World champions or they will now humiliate Serbia and France, Iran and Bulgaria didn't quite match their level in the first round, to be fair, but you can recognize Heynen's signature and their overall improvement when you watch them. They can make a small mistake in Pool H and still qualify, I am eager to find out how far they can go. And especially what Heynen will prepare against France.
Take even Kurek's rejuvenation, if I may. To me, an overall overestimated player, Kurek seems different and fits Heynen's team well. He probably will be one of the reasons they won't become World champions, but at least he seems back to volleyball life and doesn't make stupid mistakes. For which we should again give credit to Heynen.