Italy women's volleyball secures three VNL victories and prepares for Brazil showdown

The Italian women’s national volleyball team, coached by Julio Velasco, won its first three matches of the 2026 Volleyball Nations League in Brasilia, defeating Bulgaria (3‑0), the Netherlands (3‑0) and Turkey (3‑1). Key contributors included opposite Merit Adigwe, opposite Ekaterina Antropova, middle blocker Linda Nwakalor and libero Valentina Fersino. Velasco praised the team’s character, defensive coverage and wall play, noting the rotation of players to build depth and experience.

Following the victories, Italy now faces host nation Brazil on 7 June at the Nilson Nelson Palasport. The match is seen as a crucial test and development opportunity for the young squad ahead of the finals. Broadcasts of the Italy‑Turkey game were available via streaming platforms DAZN and VBTV.

The team’s unbeaten run brings them to the top of the VNL standings, with Velasco emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and learning from each opponent.