The Ukrainian volleyball team triumphed in an intense match against the Netherlands at the start of the third week of the Nations League.

The game ended with a score of 3:2.

The first set began with an exchange of serves, where neither team could gain an advantage. However, midway through, the "blue and yellows" managed to pull ahead slightly. This allowed them to take the set.

In the second set, the decisive moment came at the start when the Dutch secured 4 consecutive serves, taking the lead (7:3). From that point, Ukraine could not catch up with their opponents.

The third set was tightly contested until the very end. It was only at a score of 19:19 that the Netherlands seized the initiative and won six of the next seven rallies, allowing them to take the lead in the match.

The potentially decisive set began with an advantage for Raul Lozano's squad. Ukraine jumped ahead from the start and did not allow the opponents to regain control. This led to a tiebreak.

During the tiebreak, Ukrainian team leader Vasyl Tupchiy performed excellently, becoming the top scorer in that set. This contributed to Ukraine's victory.

It should be noted that Ukraine’s blocking game, typically their strongest asset, was not effective in this match – the Netherlands outperformed the "blue and yellows" in successful blocks and also excelled in serves.

Nations League 2025
Group Stage, Match 9
July 16

Ukraine – Netherlands 3:2 (25:21, 20:25, 20:25, 26:24, 15:13)

Recall that the Ukrainians defeated the USA, achieved a stunning victory over Cuba and Japan, had no issues against Turkey, overcame Bulgaria, but unfortunately lost to Brazil, Iran, and France.

To advance to the playoffs, the team needs to finish in the top 8. Before this match, they were in sixth place. This victory significantly improved Ukraine's chances of moving to the next stage.

The schedule for the final matches of the first phase can be found at this link.