France reaches volleyball final, one step away from historic double

The French volleyball team has qualified for the final of the Paris Olympics after beating reigning world champions Italy 3-0 in a thrilling semi-final match.

The victory takes France one step closer to becoming the first team since the United States in 1988 to win back-to-back Olympic volleyball titles. Only the USSR (1964-1966) and the United States (1984-1988) have previously achieved this feat.

France’s victory was built on a strong defensive performance, with the team repeatedly digging out Italian attacks. Trevor Clevenot, who was named the player of the match, led the way with 15 points.

“We were very clear-headed and very aggressive at the same time,” Clevenot said after the match. “When we’re like that, we’re difficult to play against. We saved a lot of balls in defense, which got into their heads a little bit. When we play this type of volleyball, which is really complete, we’re also enjoyable to watch. We have fun on the court and tonight it paid off.”

France will now face Poland in the final on Saturday. Poland beat Brazil 3-2 in the other semi-final match.

“It’s going to be even more difficult against the Poles,” Clevenot said. “But we’re going to give it our all and try to win the gold medal.”

The French team is hoping to become the first French team to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. The team won silver in 2004 and bronze in 2016.

The final match will be played at the Arena Paris Sud on Saturday at 13:00 CEST.