Iran beats Italy, earns third consecutive win in VNL 2021

Vladimir Alekno’s men defeated Italy 3-1 (26-24, 29-27, 21-25, 25-22), Tasnim News Agency reported.

Saber Kazemi scored 24 points for Iran and Gabriele Nelli achieved 20 points for the Italian team.

Team Melli is scheduled to meet Bulgaria Saturday night.

The competition format is a single round robin pool with each of the 16 teams facing every other ahead of semifinals between the top four of the standings.

The semifinal winners will clash for the title, with the losers playing out for the bronze medal.

The tournament is being held in Rimini, Italy within a secure 'bubble' with all hygiene protocols in place to ensure the health and well-being of all athletes, officials and staff throughout the competition.