For the semi-final against France, the starting six consisted of De Vleeschhauwer, Spiessens, Kobe Verwimp, Wolters, Bus and Ponseele. Matis Verwimp stepped in as libero.
Belgium briefly countered the French world champion (3-3) but the French soon dominated the match (9-14). Cutting shots and bossing the blocking (11-16 and 12-20). Time-outs and substitutions could not turn the tide : 13-25.


In the second set Belgium went along until 6-8. Belgium fought for what it was worth and followed until 13-15. France ran out again (13-19) but De Vleeschhauwer gave us hope again with 2 beautiful smashes (17-20). The Belgian block held up well (19-21) but finally France took the set : 22-25.
The same scenario as in the second set (6-8), until Kobe Verwimp embarrassed the French block a couple of times and served to the French (10-10 and 13-13). France snuck further away to 15-20. Belgium won the rally of the match (17-20) but France also won the third set 20-25.


A more than creditable match from our boys that gives us hope for tomorrow's bronze medal match