Cuba Finally Wins Match in World Volleyball League

HAVANA TIMES — Cuba’s mens volleyball team defeated Russia three sets to one to pick up its first victory after a highly disappointing start in this year’s World Volleyball League.

The 25-23, 20-25, 25-20 y 25-22 victory over the reigning Olympic champions was the islander’s first after seven straight defeats including a 3-0 loss to Russia on Friday.

Playing in Pool B of the three pool league Cuba is in the cellar with a 1-7 record. Despite their loss to the Cubans on Saturday, Russia is still in first place with a 6-2 record followed by Italy 5-2, Germany 3-2, Serbia 3-4 and Iran, 2-3.

Pool A is led by Bulgaria and Brazil, both 5-1 followed by USA 4-2, France 3-5, Poland 1-4 and Argentina 1-6.  Brazil lost its undefeated status on Saturday being upset by France 3-1 (29-27, 23-25, 25-22 y 25-19).

Pool C is led by The Netherlands and Canada, both 6-2, follwed by Portugal 4-3, Finland 3-5, Japan 2-5 and Korea 2-6.