Article by Franco Longo – Photos by FIPT Communication and Marketing Commission
Strong Start for the Italian Teams
Three wins for the women; men victorious in their opening match against Hungary on Friday
The opening day of the Indoor World Championship fully rewards the Italian women’s national team, coached by Maddalena Pasquetto and Andrea Fiorini. The Italian side delivered convincing performances, playing with great commitment despite the modest level of their opponents.
In their first match, Italy secured a clear victory over Benin: 13–3. In their second match, the Italians defeated England, maintaining control of the game throughout. Given the relatively easy fixtures, head coach Maddalena Pasquetto gave playing time to all athletes. On Friday, the team secured their third victory against Catalonia.
On that occasion, the Italian team was without the Zeni sisters, who had returned home due to a family bereavement. The two Ubisport Ciserano players are expected to return to Rome today for the upcoming matches and will already be back on the court Saturday against Brazil.
Men’s Tournament
A similar story unfolded in the men’s competition. The Italian team, coached by Luca Baldini and Nicola Valentini, made a winning debut against Hungary: 13–2. The Hungarians reached deuce (40-all) on four occasions (splitting them two apiece), but ultimately had to concede to Italy’s clear superiority.
In Group A, Benin defeated England, but the African team was later beaten by China. Catalonia made an excellent start with two wins from two matches.
In Group B, Spain narrowly defeated Hungary in a balanced match: 13–10. Brazil made a strong debut, securing two victories against Sweden and Spain. Based on their performances, Brazil appears to have all the credentials to enjoy a strong tournament and could be one of the pleasant surprises.
In Group C, Portugal defeated Belgium, but then lost to Germany, who also beat San Marino.
Women’s Tournament
In the women’s competition, Brazil and Catalonia both opened with wins in Group F, while in Group G, Germany started its World Championship campaign in the best possible way with two victories.
Results
Men
Group A
Benin – England 13–6
Benin – China 8–13
Catalonia – China 13–0
Catalonia – England 13–0
Catalonia – Benin 13–8
China – England 13–11
Group B
Spain – Hungary 13–10
Sweden – Brazil 1–13
Brazil – Spain 13–2
Sweden – Hungary 3–13
Group C
Portugal – Belgium 13–9
San Marino – Germany 2–13
Germany – Portugal 13–6
Belgium – Germany 3–13
Women
Group F
Brazil – England 13–9
Italy – Benin 13–3
Italy – England 13–2
Catalonia – Benin 13–2
Benin – Brazil 4–13
England – Benin 13–11
Brazil – Catalonia 11–13
Italy – Catalonia 13–1
Group G
Portugal – Germany 10–13
Germany – Sweden 13–3
Sweden – Portugal 4–13
France – Portugal 13–2
France – Sweden 13–0