Brazil shattered Italy's legendary winning streak with a breathtaking 3-2 victory in front of a sold-out home crowd in Brasília in the Volleyball Nations League. Handing the reigning Olympic and world champions their first defeat in over two years, the Brazilians secured a thrilling 3-2 triumph (25-15, 25-22, 22-25, 24-26, 15-12).
Italy entered the match holding an incredible 39-match international undefeated run. Over those two years of dominance, the Azzurre had collected gold medals at the VNL, the World Championship, and the Paris Olympics. Ironically, their last loss before this historic streak was also inflicted by Brazil back in 2024.
Brazil came out on fire, taking a commanding 2-0 set lead thanks to a stellar offensive performance from Ana Cristina, who racked up a match-high 22 points. Outside hitter Júlia Bergmann was equally unstoppable, chipping in 18 points and anchoring the team's serve-receive. 
Italy showed their championship pedigree by battling back to claim the third and fourth sets, led by dangerous opposite Kate Antropova, but Brazil found an extra gear defensively in the tie-break to seal the fifth set 15-12.

Making the victory even more impressive, Brazil pulled it off without their rested captain, Gabi Guimarães. Instead, veteran setter Macris Carneiro masterfully distributed the offense, while middle blocker Carolana came up with clutch net defenses in the final moments. 
This statement win keeps the Brazilian squad undefeated and firmly establishes them as the team to beat in this year's VNL.
Photos: Volleyball World