Italy Women announced their presence at the 2017 FIVB World Grand Prix Finals in style on August 3, 2017, defeating USA Women 3-1 (25-19, 19-25, 25-18, 25-23) in Nanjing. Led by the explosive Paola Egonu, Italy completed a well-rounded performance that left the American side searching for answers.

Match Overview

From the first set, Italy’s aggression at the net set the tone. Egonu, with her incredible leaping ability and sheer hitting power, repeatedly broke through the American block. The United States, missing some of their usual sharpness in passing, were forced to rely on low-percentage sets and struggled to keep up. Italy comfortably closed out the opener 25-19.

The second set brought a response from the United States. Kim Hill and Michelle Bartsch-Hackley found their rhythm from the left side, while the serve of Carli Lloyd created headaches for Italy’s reception. USA built an early lead and maintained it through to a 25-19 win, giving the crowd and their own bench renewed energy.

However, Italy quickly regrouped. The tactical adjustments from coach Davide Mazzanti saw the Italian blockers step closer to the net, making it harder for the American opposites to score from the slides and high balls. Italy regained control of the third set, and although the fourth set was far tighter — with USA defending brilliantly and forcing multiple deuce situations — Italy’s nerve and superior finishing were the difference. The 25-23 fourth set sealed a memorable victory.

Key Moments and Tactical Story

• Egonu’s 26-point masterpiece: The Italian opposite was the difference maker in every set she played, scoring at a remarkably efficient clip.
• Italy’s blocking tour de force: Danesi and Chirichella combined for several key blocks in sets three and four, disrupting the US attack at cruical moments.
• USA’s second-set revival: A short serving run from Bartsch-Hackley lifted USA in the second set and gave them a temporary foothold.
• The final-set duel: USA twice had a chance to even the match, but Italy’s composure under pressure — and a final decisive block on USA’s main hitter — sealed the victory.

Standout Players and Season Context

Paola Egonu was the game-changer, producing a performance that confirmed her place among volleyball’s next great stars. For the USA, Kim Hill led the way emotionally and offensively, but the lack of support from other hitters proved fatal. Opposite Kelly Murphy was kept in check by Italy’s disciplined block.

This defeat was a significant early blow for USA, who would need to recover fast in the subsequent round-robin matches. Italy, meanwhile, gained crucial momentum in their bid for the semi-finals and sent a warning shot that they were more than capable of competing with the world’s elite at the 2017 World Grand Prix Finals.