TEHRAN - Iran triumphed over Italy on Sunday, securing the gold medal at the 2025 FIVB Men’s U-21 World Championship in Jiangmen, China.
The outstanding Matin Husseini was named the world’s best U-21 volleyball player.
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei congratulated the FIVB Men’s U-21 team for winning the championship title, expressing gratitude for the pride and joy they brought to the Iranian nation.
This final marked the third encounter between the Iranian and Italian teams.
Both Iran and Italy advanced to the final after dominant semifinal victories at the Jiangmen Sports Center on Saturday. The Italian team sought to avenge its losses to Iran in 2023 and 2029, while Iran aimed to defend its title for the third time.
In the semifinal, Iran defeated the USA in straight sets, winning 25-21, 25-20, and 25-20.
Ali Mombeni led the Iranian effort with 19 points, comprising 18 attacks and one ace. Armin Ghelichniazi contributed 10 points, including three blocks, while Taha Behboudnia and Emran Kook Jili each added three blocks. Ariyan Mahmoudi Nejad scored eight points.
Iran’s defense was consistently strong, preventing the USA from gaining any significant momentum.
President Masoud Pezeshkian congratulated the Iranian national youth volleyball team following their triumph at the world championship, lauding their determination and skill.
He extended his congratulations not only to the team but also to the Iranian people and coaching staff who supported their journey.
According to a statement, President Pezeshkian remarked, “This championship adds another golden leaf to the book of honors for Iranian sports and elevates the name of our beloved homeland to the highest peaks of pride.”
In his message, the President expressed his deep admiration for the team’s performance, stating, “The proud championship of our country’s youth volleyball players in world competitions has showcased their remarkable abilities and fierce determination.”
“Their consecutive victories against powerhouse teams demonstrate the faith, ambition, and unparalleled talent of our youth. They have proven that Islamic Iran is capable of reaching new heights and shining its talents on the global stage,” he stated.