The Iranian men's national volleyball team at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship. Volleyball World
MANILA — World No. 16 Iran is letting us know that they are not backing down against upset-seeking No. 77 Alas Pilipinas.
Moments after the Iranians' win against Tunisia, 23-25, 25-20, 25-23, 25-16, on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena, Iran head coach Roberto Piazza issued an apology because they about to battle the host nation in Pool A of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship.
“Sorry. I can say sorry because I would like to play against another team—and not against the Philippines, because it’s the host of the World Championship,” said Piazza.
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As the games wrapped up yesterday, it turns out that Philippines is now standing on Iran's way to the Round of 16.
Piazza said he's focusing on his team and not on opposing squads, as they, by then, waited for the result of the Philippines-Egypt showdown.
Alas went on to score an upset against the World No. 21 and defending African champions, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21.
READ: Alas Pilipinas Men make history, defeat Egypt for first-ever win in FIVB Worlds
"It’s depending on us and also from the result of the other one [Philippines vs. Egypt] but first thing, we can do a step. That’s why I prefer to put the focus on my team and we have to be quiet but so determined," he said.
Piazza was also in the Manila leg in the previous Volleyball Nations League (VNL).
READ: FIVB Worlds: Fearless Alas Men still embracing 'nothing to lose' mindset ahead of Iran bout
"It’s my fourth season in a row that I am here [in Manila]. Before, I’m here in the VNL and now in the World Championship. Every time, it’s amazing, the situation. But I need to think about my team so that’s why I want to put the focus on us," the Italian mentor added.
Iran and Philippines will conclude Pool A action on Thursday at the same Pasay venue. First serve is scheduled at 5:30 p.m.
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