Tunisia Outclassed by Poland in Volleyball World Cup Opener
Tunisia suffered a straight-sets defeat against defending champions Poland in their opening match at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Cup, currently being held in Japan.
The North Africans were outplayed throughout the contest, losing 3-0 (25-17, 25-15, 25-20) in Tuesday morning’s encounter. Poland, who are among the favourites to retain the title, dominated in all departments and never allowed Tunisia a way back into the match.
Despite signs of improvement in the third set, Tunisia’s efforts were not enough to trouble a well-organised and physically superior Polish side.
Tunisia, coached by Fathi Mkaouar, will now look to regroup ahead of their upcoming matches in a demanding schedule that includes fixtures against volleyball powerhouses Iran, Russia, and Italy, as well as continental rivals Egypt.
Tunisia’s Full World Cup Schedule (Japan 2015)
Tuesday, 8 September: Tunisia 0–3 Poland
Wednesday, 9 September (07:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Iran
Thursday, 10 September (10:40 GMT): Tunisia vs Russia
Saturday, 12 September (07:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Venezuela
Sunday, 13 September (07:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Italy
Wednesday, 16 September (11:20 GMT): Tunisia vs Japan
Thursday, 17 September (07:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Italy (second leg)
Friday, 18 September (04:10 GMT): Tunisia vs USA
Monday, 21 September (03:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Egypt
Tuesday, 22 September (09:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Australia
Wednesday, 23 September (06:10 GMT): Tunisia vs Canada
With the tournament running under a round-robin format, every match counts as Tunisia aim to earn valuable experience and possibly spring a surprise or two.
The team will hope to bounce back in their second outing against Iran, one of Asia’s leading volleyball nations, scheduled for Wednesday morning.
