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The match yesterday didn't lack excitement

Brazilians clearly lacked practice, while Italy, on the other hand, seemed perfectly prepared

Brazil seemed a bit off track and disorganized early in the match. Italy knew how to take advantage of it to get ahead very quickly. The home team got back to their old selves later, and after a great fight, had a set point to get even, but didn't use it. They did manage to win a set later on, but couldn't make a comeback.

Serving was the best segment of their game, and even though they recorded only 4 aces (one less than Italy), many other services were extremely tricky for the Italians to receive. Lucas and Sidao did particularly well, serving in the key moments of the second and third set.

- Italy deserved to win. They served well, and didn't give us the chance to develop our game. I am sorry we disappointed the fans, but I think we'll do much better tomorrow - captain Bruninho said.

- My team made too many mistakes, and regardless of that, we managed to do good against Italy. We can do much better, and we'll prove it tomorrow - Rezende said.

Leandro Visotto was the most efficient player at Brasil with 16 points, while Lucarelli and Lucas added 12 each.

Italy prepared for the opening of the World League very well. There were a few mistakes, but that is normal in the first match. They put pressure on Brazilian reception constantly, and then counter attacked to win points easily. Great serving, and the unstoppable duo Kovar Zaytsev (recorded 37 points) were the greatest help in that win.

- Neither team are in top-shape and that's obvious. They will certainly show more in the next few matches. I am happy with how we did set 1 and 2. The win is very important, but we know that we have another tough match tomorrow - Italian coach Berruto said.

I have to admit I don't understand the odds on Brazil. I saw the game yesterday and the hosts didn't look too well. They used their physique to threaten their opponents in the second and win the third, but that was it. I now they can do a lot better but so can Italy. The Italians were just taking care of business, there was nothing particularly good in their performance. Good serves, solid block and most attacks aimed at Zaytsev. Both teams have stated they can to even better today and that they expect another tight game. Judging by what I've seen, that should be the case. Despite of everything, I think that Italy can get at least one set and lose within the selected margin, should they lose at all.