Poland beat South Korea in volleyball Olympic qualifier

Xinhua
18 Sep 2023, 11:44 GMT+10

WARSAW, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Poland's women's volleyball team defeated South Korea 3-1 (25-22, 24-26, 25-21, 25-9) during the preliminary phase of the Olympic qualifying tournament in Lodz on Sunday.

Magdalena Stysiak emerged as the top scorer with 21 points, closely followed by Martyna Lukasik with 20 points for Poland. Kang Sohwi contributed 16 points for South Korea.

From the outset, Stefano Lavarini's team dominated. Kamila Witkowska's performance helped Poland establish a comfortable 15-9 lead. South Korea rallied, narrowing the deficit to 23-21, but Poland countered effectively. Lukasik secured the 25-22 win with two powerful strikes.

In the second set, Poland maintained momentum. Holding a 19-14 lead, it appeared they would easily clinch the set. However, South Korea, under Spanish coach Cesar Hernandez Gonzalez, rallied to tie the score at 21-21. Demonstrating resilience in a pivotal moment, Pyo Seungju's spike secured a 26-24 victory for South Korea.

South Korea continued to impress, leading 9-6 in the third set. In response, Poland's coach Lavarini introduced Magdalena Jurczyk, Agnieszka Korneluk, and Joanna Wolosz. Their inclusion positively impacted the team, with Poland showcasing superior skill. Stysiak concluded the set at 25-21, as South Korea's defense struggled to counter her offense.

In the fourth set, Lavarini's squad took control. A notable ace by Joanna Wolosz extended Poland's lead to 17-7. They limited South Korea to just nine points in this set, sealing a 3-1 overall victory.

With this win, Poland secured their second victory in Pool C of the Olympic qualifying tournament, matching the records of Germany and the United States. South Korea, having previously lost to Italy, is yet to earn points.

On Tuesday, Poland will compete against Colombia at the Atlas Arena in Lodz, while South Korea will face Germany.

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