Brazilian youngsters crash Belgian dreams

Montreux, Switzerland, June 3, 2016 – The Yellow Tigers of Belgium, needing a win to qualify for the semi-finals, bowed before the pressure as they were put to the sword by already eliminated Brazil, who pressure-free played some superb volleyball to send the semi-final hopefuls crashing out at the first hurdle. The result meant defending-champions Turkey live to fight another day, clinging onto second place in Pool B to progress. The Belgians went into the game on three points, two adrift of the Turks who occupied the final qualification spot with five. Only a three-point win would do against Brazil to overtake Turkey, but nerves were clearly jangling in the Belgian camp going into this one and Brazil, looking to restore pride after a so-far dismal campaign, capitalised ruthlessly, crushing the Europeans in an emphatic 3:0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-22) victory. Belgium flew out of the blocks like an express train in the first set, a lethal spike from Lise Van Hecke, a consistent performer for the Belgians in Montreux, amongst the highlights as the Belgians motored comfortably into a convincing lead. The Brazilians however were determined to make life difficult for their …

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