France defeats Italy in five-set VNL showdown in Ottawa

France beat Italy 3–2 in a five‑set men's Volleyball Nations League match in Ottawa, Canada. The Italians opened the match with a 25‑19 set win, but France rallied to take the second set 29‑27. Italy claimed the third set 25‑23, yet the French side forced a decider by winning the fourth 25‑23. In the final set, France secured a 16‑14 victory.

Kamil Rymchlicki led Italy with 30 points, while France’s Mathis Henno contributed 18 points and Daniel Iyegbekedo added several blocks, including five in the fourth set. Coach Andrea Giani praised his squad for resilience after a difficult start, noting the win would boost confidence for the campaign. The match marked the first VNL encounter for both teams and sets the stage for France’s next fixture against Canada.