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Italy Falls to France in Five Sets: High Tension at Nations League Opener
Italy lost 3-2 to France in the opening match of the 2026 Nations League. Despite Kamil Rychlicki’s 30 points, it wasn’t enough as France’s young players contributed to secure the victory in a five-set thriller.
The volleyball clash between Italy and France turned into a breathtaking match at the start of the 2026 Nations League. France won the five-set encounter 3-2 with scores of 25-19, 27-29, 25-23, 23-25, and 14-16.
Both teams took turns gaining the upper hand early in the new season. The match featured long rallies and mutual errors, with momentum frequently shifting between the sides.
Rychlicki and Bottolo Stand Out for Italy
In Ferdinando De Giorgi’s squad, Kamil Rychlicki was Italy’s most productive player. The Italian-Luxembourgish spiker finished the match with 30 points, keeping his team competitive for long stretches.
Mattia Bottolo took on the captain’s role in Giannelli’s absence and contributed important points. Middle blocker Sanguinetti and setter Paolo Porro were also key in maintaining Italy’s structure.
Italy played a more cohesive game in the first set. With the impact of Bottolo and Rychlicki, they opened a gap and won the set 25-19. However, the match became more balanced in the following sets.
Rychlicki’s 10 points in the second set were not enough. A late error gave France the set, leveling the match.
France Responds with Young Talent
On France’s side, Boyer and Clevenot, as more experienced players, led the team. The standout performances came from young setter Tizi-Oualou and 2007-born Iyegbekedo.
With Brizard recently joining the team and making room for Tizi-Oualou, Iyegbekedo, fielded by coach Giani, scored 12 points. The young player was especially effective at the net, recording 8 block points.
In the third set, Pardo Mati’s impact gave Italy renewed hope. Mati stood out in serving and blocking, trying to balance the match. Nevertheless, France held firm in critical moments.
The fourth set also featured long rallies and shifting leads. Italy won this set 25-23, pushing the match to a tie-break.
France Claims Victory in Tie-Break
In the deciding set, Italy tried to take the lead with Luca Porro, Mati, and Rychlicki. France responded through Boyer and Iyegbekedo.
In the final moments, points from Boyer and Clevenot put France ahead. Italy failed to convert match points, and France secured the win 16-14 in the fifth set.
This match was one of Italy’s first serious tests of the new season. France started the tournament on a high note, winning a tough opener with contributions from their young players.
Italy will face Germany again today at 22:00.
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