Tokyo, Japan, June 2, 2016 – Poland clinched the first Olympic berth available at the Men’s World Olympic Qualification Tournament, after they defeated Venezuela 3-0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-17) at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium on Thursday.
Poland captain Michal Kubiak led his team with 13 points. Bartosz Kurek added 11 points, then Karol Klos and Rafael Buszek had nine points each to lead the Polish attack. Poland finished with nine blocks and four service aces. Kervin Martin Pinerua top scored for Venezuela with 11 points.
Poland controlled the pace in the first set and made sure that Venezuela would not make a significant run. As Poland led the set at 20-15, Venezuela suddenly sparked a 5-1 run that cut down the Polish lead to just one point 21-20. Poland regained their focus and scored the next four points that ensured victory in the first set 25-21.
The Polish attackers triggered the Venezuelans’ defensive weakness and built a good lead in the second and third sets. The Polish blockers likewise overwhelmed their rivals, as they forced them to hit in difficult angles. Kubiak superbly showed his range in attack that perplexed the Venezuelan defenders. Poland took both sets in convincing fashion at 25-17 and 25-18, respectively.