The German volleyball players fought their way to their third victory at the European Championships and advanced early to the round of 16.
Coach Michal Winiarski’s team won against Belgium on Sunday (September 3rd, 2023) in Ancona (Italy) after a 2-0 set deficit 3-2 (22:25, 17:25, 25:15, 25:22, 15 :12). The most successful German attacker was Georg Grozer with 22 points.
Kampa and Grozer back
Captain Lukas Kampa and exceptional player Grozer, who were rested against Switzerland, returned to the starting six. In the first set, the Belgians were superior and well prepared for the German offensive. A strong serve series by Moritz Karlitzek came too late.
In the second round, too, the German game remained flawed. The Belgians quickly had a clear lead that they never gave up.
Narrow lead
“We have to start playing volleyball. We’re oversleeping it right now”, said Winiarski before the third set. His team dominated the following round. In the fourth set, too, the DVV selection initially took control and achieved a narrow lead. In the tie-break, the Germans were only behind. A block and a point from Grozer brought the important 12:10 lead.
The German team has thus secured a good starting position for the two final group games against the opponents rated as strongest. On Tuesday we face Serbia, on Wednesday the DVV selection meets hosts Italy (both 9 p.m. / Sportdeutschland.tv). In each game, points are awarded for the world rankings, which can ultimately be decisive for Olympic qualification. Germany still has to make up a few places there.