Portugal stuns Cuba

September 13, 2025.- Portugal shocked Cuba with a victory in their debut at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines. In a Pool D match played in Pasay City on Saturday, the Europeans came back after losing the first set to celebrate their first World Championship win in nearly 23 years.

With 19 points from 22-year-old outside hitter Nuno Marques, Portugal (world ranking No. 29) defeated world No. 10 Cuba 3-1 (20-25, 25-22, 25-19, 25-19).

Portugal was stronger at the net with 11-7 kill blocks and showed better accuracy, committing only 23 unforced errors compared to Cuba’s 31. Marques registered a 65% success rate in attack and sealed the match with a winning swing. He also added two aces and two kill blocks. Middle blocker Filip Cveticanin stood out with four blocks and a 71% attacking success rate, finishing with 14 points, while opposite José Pinto also scored 14, including three blocks.

Cuba matched Portugal in successful kills (48 each) and was better from the service line with 7 aces to 5. Outside hitter Marlon Yant also posted 19 points (two aces, two blocks), matching Marques as the game’s top scorer. Opposite José Massó contributed 12 points, while captain Miguel López added another 11.

Cuba faces Colombia on September 14 at 10:00 AM (hora local).