The United States women’s volleyball team continued their dominant run at the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games with a convincing quarterfinal victory over Poland. The defending champions made quick work of the World No. 4 team, winning in straight sets 25-22, 25-14, 25-20.
Led by top scorer Andrea Drews with 13 points, the Americans displayed a strong team effort with Kathryn Plummer and Avery Skinner contributing 12 points each. Despite a slow start in the third set, the U.S. team rallied with a series of blocks to regain momentum and secure the win.
“We definitely have some experienced players who calmed things down a bit. This Olympics, rarely will teams go 3-0, so I’m really pleased with the way we mentally stayed in it despite having a slower start,” Drews said.
In the semifinals, the United States will face off against Brazil, who have remained undefeated in Paris. The Brazilian team defeated the Dominican Republic in straight sets to advance to the final four.
While the U.S. team has dropped five sets in Paris, they have shown resilience and the ability to come back on top. Middle blocker Haleigh Washington expressed excitement about facing Brazil in the semifinals, noting the competitive nature of the matchup and the electric atmosphere expected.
In other quarterfinal action, European champions Turkey made history by reaching the Olympic semifinals for the first time. They overcame China in a thrilling 3-2 victory, with Cuban-born Melissa Vargas delivering a standout performance with 42 points, including 38 kills.
Turkey’s Italian coach Daniele Santarelli praised his team’s effort, emphasizing their determination and heart in reaching the semifinals despite facing injuries. Turkey will face Italy in the semifinals after the world’s top-ranked side defeated Serbia in straight sets.
The Paris Games have provided intense competition and thrilling matches, with teams vying for a spot on the podium. As the tournament progresses, the stakes are higher and the battles on the court become even more intense.
As the Olympic volleyball competition in Paris continues, fans can expect more exciting matchups and memorable moments as teams compete for gold and glory on the world stage.
