Iran First Team to Seal VNL Final Six Spot
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran became the first team to secure a Final Six spot, with four matches to spare in pool play.
Amir Ghafour once again led the Iranian team to a 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-14) sweep of Australia for its 10th win in 11 games at the 2019 FIVB Men's Volleyball Nations League.
The win ensures that Iran remains at the very top of the standings and sets up a most anticipating faceoff with France for Sunday - though mathematically the Asian side cannot be outside of the top six.
Iran eased past the 'Volleyroos' with Ghafour leading the way on 16 points, including three blocks and four aces, before a thrilled 6,000-strong home crowd in Ardabil.
France also extended its winning streak with a 3-0 (25-23, 26-24, 25-23) win over Portugal that places the 2018 VNL silver medalist in the qualifying zone for this year's Final Six.
France's Timothee Carle with 12 points and Daryl Bultor with 10 were the only two players with double-digit scoring in the match as the winner overcame Portugal's strong blocking.
