Overview

• Italy swept Cuba 3-0 (25-9, 25-8, 25-16) in Pool B at Phuket to move to 2-0 and qualify early for the round of 16.
• Reports note Italy’s winning run reached 31 consecutive matches, underscoring the team’s current form.
• Velasco kept the same starters as against Slovakia, then introduced Giovannini, Antropova and Omoruyi, with Sartori and Akrari making World Championship debuts in the third set.
• Carlotta Cambi was held out as a precaution for a minor muscle issue and was listed as the second libero, with the coach stressing the squad’s overall good health.
• Italy faces Belgium on Tuesday, Aug. 26 at 12:00 CET for first place in the pool before the tournament shifts to Bangkok for the next phase.