Simone Giannelli (far right) celebrates with his teammates. © Enzo Pinelli

World Cup show: Giannelli & Co. conjure their way into the semifinals

It was a fantastic show: Simone Giannelli and Italy reached the semifinals of the Volleyball World Championship in Manila (Philippines).

September 24, 2025

From: det

Simone Giannelli has played 263 matches for Italy's national team, almost always performing well. But in Wednesday's World Cup quarterfinal against Belgium, the Bolzano native topped himself: Giannelli played one of his best games in the azure blue jersey and led a very strong Italy to the semifinals. The final score was 3-0 against a completely overwhelmed Belgian team, who were truly pitying.

Belgium had inflicted an unexpected 2-3 defeat on the Azzurri in the group stage. However, Giannelli and his team got their revenge in the quarterfinals: From the very first point, Italy showed who was the boss. Winning sets 25-13, 25-18, and 25-18 proved that Belgium didn't stand a chance.

Giannelli (right) played outstandingly. © Enzo Pinelli

Giannelli was everywhere on the pitch this Wednesday. Whether with brilliant passes or legendary reflexes, the Bolzano native played outstandingly. "I'm very happy about this win," said the 29-year-old. "The group match loss against Belgium was bothering me, so I analyzed my game very carefully and knew what I needed to improve today. I succeeded."

In Saturday's semifinal, Italy will face Poland, which beat Turkey 3-0 in the quarterfinals. The Azzurri are the defending champions in the Philippines, as Giannelli's team last won World Cup gold in 2022.