EuroVolleyM 2023: EuroVolley 23 ignites with epic opener: Italy vs Belgium showdown
Preview
The Italy of Ferdinando "Fefè" De Giorgi will begin EuroVolley today versus Belgium. The Azzurri haven't been shy about wanting a new title as the team gears up to host the opener in Bologna to jumpstart a hopeful deep run.
Italy arrives at the appointment as reigning champion thanks to the success achieved at the European Volleyball Championships 2021, after overcoming Slovenia 3-2 in the final in Katowice.
The defending champions are playing at home. It is an asset, but playing for big stakes also brings a certain amount of pressure. In any case, the Italian federation has set the bar high and spared no effort. The aim was to prepare the players as well as possible, so as to offer not only a sporting performance, but also a great show for the public.
"It's short, intense and, at the same time, we have no right to make mistakes," adds Ferdinando "Fefè" De Giorgi ahead of the match. "Is the pressure greater at home, in front of family and friends? Yes, without hesitation. The Unipol Arena in Bologna will be packed. We'll have to do well," De Giorgi says.
Captain Simone Giannelli embraces the excitement of the fans' support and the challenges of the impending competition: "We are charged up, we expect many fans at our matches. We are happy about this, it will be a difficult European Championship, with a lot of travelling, but we must not let this influence us. We are ready to start at full speed right from the beginning".
Ferdinando De Giorgi“At this stage the preparation is done and now it is time to shine. I really believe my players will shine.”
Head coach of the Azzurri
On the other side of the net stands Belgium, once a dominant force in the sport, now on a quest for rejuvenation. Under Italian-born Emanuele Zanini's guidance, the Red Dragons are determined to reclaim their former glory. Zanini acknowledges the importance of matches in refining the team's rhythm and process, paving the way for improvement. “We’re going to use this match to try to get better as a team. For us games are also important to try to establish some rhythm and some process where we continue to improve for also the final stretch of the pool phase.”
Fresh off the confirmation of his 14-player squad, which includes the return of outside hitter Sam Deroo, Zanini is hotly anticipating the chance for Belgium to put its best foot forward and again play up against some of world volleyball’s best national teams.
As the Italian squad steps onto the court tonight, they are carrying the legacy of Emilia-Romagna, a region deeply invested in promoting sports. Volleyball's deep roots in the region have given rise to exceptional teams, champions, and unparalleled emotions. The history of greatness continues.
The Italy-Belgium match carries significance beyond the game, as part of the ticket sales will contribute to aiding the victims of the unprecedented flood that ravaged the region in May. Beyond the exhilarating match, fans have an opportunity to support a noble cause and make a difference.
As Italy and Belgium clash in the riveting opener, the stage is set for a thrilling showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Volleyball enthusiasts and fans alike are invited to be part of this historic moment and witness the magic unfold in Bologna.