Italy U17 vs Cuba U17

The second set broke the match open. After a competitive opening frame, Italy's block-and-defence system — the hallmark of their title-winning run in 2024 — overwhelmed Cuba completely. Holding an opponent to 10 points in a set at world-championship level signals defensive dominance, and it drained any realistic hope of a Cuban comeback.

Italy's frontline was the difference. Their blocking unit consistently neutralised Cuba's hitters, forcing errors that turned tight rallies into easy points. Service pressure, particularly in the second set, disrupted Cuba's passing and prevented any rhythm in transition.

Cuba's resistance in the third set — pushing to 24-24 — was their best passage of the match, but Italy's composure at the death underlined why they are the team to beat in this tournament.

The set scores tell a story of Italian domination punctuated by one Cuban fightback. Italy won the first set 25-22 and the third 26-24, meaning Cuba were competitive for roughly two-thirds of the match. But the 25-10 middle set — where Italy won 15 more points — swung the overall points tally decisively. Across three sets, Italy outscored Cuba 76-56, a margin that reflects sustained control.

In the broader Pool B picture, Italy have now dropped only one set across two matches, matching the form that carried them to the inaugural title in 2024. Cuba, by contrast, have lost all six sets they have played, having also been swept 3-0 by India in their tournament opener.

Italy (2-0, 6 points) sit top of Pool B. With one preliminary match remaining against India, a win would guarantee top spot and a favourable draw in the Round of 16. The defending champions have already qualified for the knockout stage.

Cuba (0-2, 0 points, 0-6 set ratio) face Romania in their final group-stage match. A win would give them their first points, but their chances of advancing to the knockout stage depend on results elsewhere in the combined 20-team ranking, where the top 16 teams from all five pools progress.

Italy looked every bit the defending champions: organised, physical and ruthless when they sensed weakness. The second-set demolition was a warning shot to the rest of the field. Cuba competed in patches but lack the firepower and defensive structure to trouble a side of Italy's calibre.