USA edge Belgium, Puerto Rico losses to France

KRAKOW, Poland, August 31, 2014 – In an unpredictable battle, USA managed to finally defeat Belgium after being twice in control, but the Red Dragons’ resilient attitude extended the game until a 3-2 (25-21, 17-25, 25-16, 21-25, 15-11).

Last World League's MVP Taylor Sander pulled out an astonishing performance and topped the scorers' list with 24 kills, as the only athlete with more than 20 points. For Belgium, Sam Deroo capped 12 points and reserve player Gert Van Walle, who remained as a starter from the fourth set, was the most prolific one of his side, with 13 points. 

France 3, Puerto Rico 0

It wasn’t such an easy task for France to earn their first at FIVB Men’s World Championship in Poland, as the Europeans had to deal with some good energy from Puerto Rico to prevail in three close sets 3-0 (25-23, 25-22, 26-24).

Despite the loss, Puerto Rico had in Maurice Torres and captain Héctor Soto two good scoring performances, with 13 and 12 points respectively. For France, Antonin Rouzier also nailed a dozen and Kevin Le Roux followed him with 11 tallies. Les Bleus also outblocked Puerto Rico by a solid 7-0 margin.