Brazilian Men’s Volleyball Team Secures Key Win Over Italy in Volleyball Nations League Opener
The Brazilian men’s national volleyball team began their 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over reigning European champions Italy in the opening week of the tournament, held in Rio de Janeiro, on May 29, 2025. In front of an energetic home crowd, Brazil displayed strong teamwork, powerful serving, and a resurgent energy under head coach Bernardo Rezende, also known as Bernardinho.
This win gives Brazil an early boost in what promises to be a tightly contested VNL season with Olympic qualification implications.
Match Overview: Brazil 3–1 Italy (25-21, 22-25, 25-20, 25-19)
Brazil started strong in the first set, dominating at the net and forcing Italy into early errors. Though the Italians bounced back in the second set, Brazil regained control with tactical serving and precise attacking.
Set-by-Set Highlights:
- Set 1: Wallace and Lucarelli combined for 8 points, anchoring a quick Brazilian lead.
- Set 2: Italy capitalized on Brazilian errors to level the match.
- Set 3: Brazil’s block came alive, with Flávio and Lucão neutralizing Italian attacks.
- Set 4: Aces from Cachopa and smart substitutions gave Brazil momentum to close the game.
The match ended with a thunderous spike by Lucarelli, sealing Brazil’s first VNL win of 2025.
Key Performers
⭐ Ricardo Lucarelli (Outside Hitter)
Top scorer with 18 points, including 4 aces and 3 blocks. His consistency and leadership were crucial in the final two sets.
⭐ Wallace de Souza (Opposite)
Made a strong return to international play with 15 points. His veteran presence stabilized the team during pressure moments.
⭐ Bruno Rezende (Setter)
Orchestrated the offense with precision, mixing fast middle plays and well-timed back sets to create space for the wings.
Tactical Adjustments by Bernardinho
Brazil’s strategy emphasized:
- Aggressive service to disrupt Italy’s first touch
- Use of dual setters in rotations to speed up the attack
- Emphasis on second-ball options when out of system
The return of Bernardinho as head coach has brought intensity and discipline back to the squad. His leadership was visible in the team’s structure and emotional control.
VNL Importance and Olympic Implications
The Volleyball Nations League is not only a prestigious annual competition but also a key part of Brazil’s Olympic preparation for Los Angeles 2028.
The 2025 edition features:
- 16 top-ranked national teams
- A preliminary round followed by finals in Manila, Philippines
- World Ranking points that influence Olympic seeding and qualification
With fierce competition from Poland, France, the U.S., and Japan, Brazil’s early victory sets the tone for a strong campaign.
Brazil’s Upcoming Matches
Following the Italy match, Brazil will face:
- France – June 1
- Germany – June 3
- Iran – June 5
The home crowd in Rio will continue to play a vital role, offering energy and support that has historically fueled Brazil’s performances.
Conclusion: A Promising Start for Brazilian Volleyball
Brazil’s win over Italy in the 2025 VNL opener is a sign that this squad is ready to contend once again at the highest level. With a mix of veteran talent and emerging stars, and under Bernardinho’s command, Brazil is reasserting its place among the sport’s elite.