After its sixth place finish in last year's World League, the Brazilian team is looking to win its tenth World League title this year.

Moscow, Russia, June 3, 2013 – In preparation for their 2013 World League debut, Brazil and Russia played each other in two friendly matches over the past weekend on the home courts of the Dynamo Moscow Club. Brazil won both matches, taking the first on Saturday with a score of 25-17, 25-17, 23-25, 25-23 and the second, 25-20, 25-20, 19-25, 25-17.

On June 7, Brazil will face home team Poland at the Torwar Hall in Warsaw in the first pool A match of the season.  Russia will also be gearing up for its home match against Iran scheduled to take place in Kaliningrad the same day.

In his assessment of the two matches in Moscow, Brazil’s libero Mario Jr. said, "These friendlies are important preparation at the beginning of the World League. The games helped us a lot and I think the team will be ready for next week when we start the long walk that lies ahead."

His team-mate Dante was also pleased with the performance of the Brazilian team in the friendlies held this weekend. "The team is well prepared. The team is focused, well-structured and we are creating a game format with the new cycle that begins now. The two friendlies were very good for our team. We played against a selection that is heavy on serve and blocking. We won both games and we are now at full strength to begin the World League,” said Dante.

Sunday’s friendly match also provided an occasion to formally congratulate the winner of the “Share you story! Share your moments!” sweepstakes, carried out through the FIVB Heroes programme.

Liza Koloskova from Russia, submitted the winning essay which outlined her views on the question, “Which FIVB Hero did impress you the most and why?”  Citing FIVB Hero from Germany, Laura Ludwig as her favourite player, Liza wrote, “She is the one who inspires me to work hard towards a successful future. Due to her and all the FIVB Heroes I hope to maybe win an Olympic gold medal myself someday.”

At the end of Sunday’s match, Liza had the opportunity to meet FIVB President, Dr. Ary S. Graça F° and other players.

Click here for more information on the 2013 World League

The 2013 World League schedule can be found here

Language(s)

English

French

Spanish