Croatian volleyball girls secure World Championship playoff spot
Despite health issues, Croatia's U17 national team defeated Argentina 3-1 in sets and secured second place in Group C. A decisive match against Czech Republic awaits them tonight.
Despite health issues, Croatia's U17 national team defeated Argentina 3-1 in sets and secured second place in Group C. A decisive match against Czech Republic awaits them tonight.
Croatia's women's U17 volleyball national team achieved a significant victory at the World Championship in Chile, defeating Argentina 3-1 in sets (25:19, 25:15, 8:25, 25:22). With this triumph, after an hour and a half of play, the team secured second place in Group C and a spot in the playoff round, announced the Croatian Volleyball Association (HOS).
The match started better for the Argentines, who led 13:12 in the first set. However, a crucial 6:0 run by the Croatian players followed, giving them an 18:13 lead. They completely controlled the game from then on and closed out the set 25:19.
The second set was even more dominant. After an initial feeling-out period, Croatia regained the initiative. At 18:13, they stepped on the gas, winning four consecutive points for a commanding 22:13 lead, and eventually closed the set convincingly at 25:15, mathematically securing their advancement to the next phase.
With advancement secured, a dip in concentration followed in the third set, which Argentina capitalized on for a convincing 25:8. However, it was just a brief respite. In the fourth set, the Croatian players took an early 7:3 lead with a 5:0 run and never relinquished their advantage, closing out the set and the match at 25:22.
Statistically, Croatia was particularly dominant in attack, scoring 48 points compared to Argentina's 39. In blocking, the teams were even (4:4), while serving went to the Argentines (7:5), who also made fewer errors overall (26:31).
Recovered Erin Ivezic was once again the most effective player for the Croatian team, scoring 23 points, including two blocks and two aces. She was supported by Emilie Stojic with 12 points, as well as captain Lana Drvis, who also recorded 12 points along with one ace.
Petra Dosen added four points (one block and one ace), Karla Gulin three (also one ace and one block), Teodora Mamic two, and Ljubica Dugandzic one point. Although Poland's victory over Spain also worked in our favor, our players, despite all the health issues that have plagued them in recent days, showed heart and strength and very dominantly completed this, in many ways, demanding match, the report states.
After five matches in Group C, Poland took first place, Croatia second, Japan third, and Argentina fourth. Spain and Brazil continue their competition in the consolation group, where they will fight for positions 17th to 24th.
In the playoffs, Croatia will face the Czech Republic, the third-placed team from Group A. This crucial match is scheduled for today, August 12, 2026, at 11:00 PM.
