The Belgian women’s national volleyball team, the Yellow Tigers, now know their opponents for the upcoming World Championship in Thailand. In the group stage, they will face three challenging teams: Italy, Cuba, and Slovakia.

Italy (FIVB-1) – Olympic Champion
Italy, the current number 1 in the world rankings and reigning Olympic champion, needs little introduction. The team is renowned for its impressive playing quality and rich volleyball tradition. For the Yellow Tigers, this is a tremendous challenge. Captain Britt Herbots and middle blocker Silke Van Avermaet will undoubtedly be looking forward to this match-up against the world’s best.

Slovakia (FIVB-28)
Slovakia is a familiar European opponent. They finished 10th at the last European Championship and represent a solid team.

Cuba (FIVB-23)
Cuba is a team in rebuilding mode, with a young, talented selection. Their physical style of play and offensive strength are comparable to teams like the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, against whom the Yellow Tigers competed last summer in the Challenger Cup. A challenging opponent that Belgium must not underestimate.
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Preparation and Prospects

"A draw is still just a draw, but this one certainly offers perspectives to achieve our objectives," says Kris Vansnick. The top two teams from Group B will cross with Group G (Poland, Germany, Kenya, and Vietnam) in the next round. Now that the opponents are known, the Yellow Tigers can prepare with focus.

The upcoming Volley Nations League will be a crucial preparation for the World Championship, where the Tigers aim to sharpen their form. For Belgian supporters, the group stage will take place in the beautiful city of Phuket, Thailand. An ideal moment to combine a vacation with top-level volleyball.