The United States overcame world No. 1 Netherlands in a five-set battle in the Women's Sitting Volleyball semifinals at CAU Gymnasium on Friday, September 12, and will meet China in Sunday's final after the host country defeated Slovenia in three sets. On the Men's side, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iran overpowered Egypt and Russia, respectively, to qualify for the Men's final.
Women's competition
Netherlands v United States (2-3)
The United States took out all their stamina and concentration to upset World No. 1 the Netherlands 19-25, 25-23, 28-26, 25-27, 15-10 in a tight match that lasted one hour and 59 minutes. The Netherlands fought hard to slow down the faster and surprisingly effective US team. The North American team, taking advantage of an outstanding performance by spiker Katie Holloway, attacked well and knew how to block the increasingly tired Dutch players. The United States will play the final against China at 6:00 p.m. (UTC/GMT +8) on Sunday.
China v Slovenia (3-0)
China displayed all their power, thrashing Slovenia 25-21, 25-12, 25-19. The European team suffered China's persistent attacks and struggled to set up their own game. Sheng Yuhong, Tan Yanhua and Zhang Lijun of China dominated the scene with their kills. On the other side of the court, captain Anita Urnaut and Danica Gosnak were scoring on occasional spikes.
Men's competition
Bosnia and Herzegovina v Egypt (3-0)
Bosnia and Herzegovina overwhelmed Egypt 25-18, 25-21, 25-20. The European team performed fast and strong, covering well in defense and attacking energetically with Safet Alibasic, Adnan Manko and Asim Medic. Egypt took out their blocking skills and played consistently, but they did not prove strong enough to beat their opponents.
Iran v Russia (3-0)
Iran smashed Russia 25-22, 25-13, 25-20 in the other Men's semifinal. The Russian team attacked and blocked powerfully, but Iran had more chances for their offence, spiking well with all their players on the court. The Iranian team did not leave room for their opponents to overcome them in a well-orchestrated game directed by setter Davood Alipourian. Iran will play the final against Bosnia and Herzegovina at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, September 15.
(BOCOG September 13, 2008)