Korea U-19 Men's Volleyball Team Advances to Round of 16 with Dominant Win Over Brazil

The future of Korean men's volleyball looks brighter than ever as the Korean U-19 men's national volleyball team has secured an early spot in the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIVB U-19 World Championship.

On July 27 (KST), Korea clinched a straight-sets victory over Brazil, defeating them 3-0 (25-16, 25-21, 25-22) in the third Group D match held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

With this win, Korea extended its undefeated run by sweeping Cuba, Colombia, and now Brazil without dropping a set, achieving its third consecutive victory. The team also maintained its lead in Group D with a total of nine points.

The tournament, featuring 24 nations divided into four groups of six teams each, grants advancement to the Round of 16 only to the top four teams in each group.

Korea is set to face Finland on July 29 and the United States on July 30 in its remaining group matches. Even in the unlikely event of losing both matches, the team’s place in the knockout stage is guaranteed.

After defeating the United States to claim bronze in the previous edition of the championship, Korea is aiming for another consecutive medal finish this year.

From the outset, the Korean squad overwhelmed Brazil with powerful offense. Lee Jun-ho and Bang Kang-ho, both representing Jecheon Industrial High School, combined for 15 points in the first set alone. In the second set, Im Se-hoon (Suseong High School) joined in the attack, destabilizing the Brazilian defense.

Lee Jun-ho led the charge with 8 points in the third set and finished with a match-high of 22 points. Bang Kang-ho also contributed impressively with 15 points.

Middle blocker Jo Young-woon (Namseong High School) played a significant role, tallying six points including crucial blocks.

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) praised the performance, noting, "Lee Jun-ho and Bang Kang-ho showcased outstanding scoring ability, while Jo Young-woon provided vital support in attack through excellent coordination with the setter." FIVB further highlighted Jo's attack efficiency as the highest on the team.

The federation added, “Korea's strengths lie in their fast and precise play, with Jo Young-woon playing a key role.”

Reflecting on the result, Jo Young-woon said, “Our team maintained focus throughout the match. Stable receptions and quick transitions were the keys to victory.”

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Yonhap News Agency, International Volleyball Federation