Poland ready for China clash in women's VNL Finals

Poland's middle blocker Aleksandra Gryka has emphasized that the team is well prepared for Wednesday's game against China in the quarterfinals of the FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

Poland beat China 3-1 in a friendly match on home ground in Radom last Saturday. The Chinese team coached by Zhao Yong will have a chance to take revenge in Wednesday's encounter in Lodz, Poland.

Martyna Lukasik (R) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between Poland and Thailand at the Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Yuan)

"It's good we played against China in Radom. The game wasn't as important as the coming match, but we could feel the atmosphere of the competition. China is a strong opponent," Gryka told Polish media on Monday.

"In the opening set we made too many mistakes, but then we proved we were able to beat them. On Wednesday we should stay focused from the beginning until the end. We are ready for the challenge. I'm sure the friendly game helped us in our preparations for the encounter in the Volleyball Nations League," she added.

Poland is preparing for a tough challenge, as it has lost all three matches against China under coach Stefano Lavarini, failing to win a single set. Two years ago, China eliminated Poland in the women's VNL semifinals.

"Our team has changed from that time. In the past we often fought against our weaknesses on the court. Now we're a more experienced team. We know what it's like to compete for high stakes," Poland's outside hitter Martyna Czyrnianska explained.

The final phase of the Women's VNL will be held from July 23 to 27.