United States to Play for Bronze at the

Men’s U21 World Championship

August 30, 2025.- The United States will play for the bronze medal at the Men’s U21 World Championship against Czechia, after falling in the semifinals to a determined Iranian team.

Playing in Jiangmen, China, the Americans were unable to stop Iran’s momentum and lost 0-3 (21-25, 20-25, 20-25). On Sunday the 30th, they will face Czechia at 5 PM (local time) for third place.

The U.S. squad is eager to avenge the bitter memories from 2023, when Czechia defeated them twice at the U21 World Championship in Manama, Bahrain. Back then, the Americans fell 1-3 in the first round and suffered another loss in the second round, this time 0-3.

Iran dominated the match across all stats — in attacks (41-35), blocks (10-7), and serves (2-1), and also capitalized on 22 unforced errors by the Americans.

Opposite Cole Hartke was the top scorer for the United States with 13 points (10 kills and 3 blocks).

Other NORCECA Teams in Placement Matches:

Canada defeated Brazil 3-2 (23-25, 25-20, 26-28, 25-20, 18-16) to secure 17th place in the tournament. Owen Harris (19 points), Dawson Pratt (16), Zachary Yewchuk (15), and Daniil Hershtynovich (14) powered the Canadian victory.

Puerto Rico fell to Colombia 1-3 (22-25, 17-25, 25-23, 23-25) to finish 22nd. Despite opposite Ramón Andrés Rosado’s 24 points in attack, it was not enough for the Boricua side.

Match Schedule August 31 (local time):

7th/8th place: Cuba vs. China – 2 PM

Bronze Medal Match: United States vs. Czechia – 5 PM