Volleyball is set to take the global stage with the Men’s World Cup 2025, which will be held in the Philippines from 12-28 September. The event will feature 32 national teams, the most in the tournament’s history, and promises 64 exciting matches that will define the new world champion.

The action kicks off with a highly anticipated match between hosts Philippines and Tunisia on 12 September at 19:00 (local time), marking the start of 17 days of serving, spiking and blocking.

GROUP STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

The tournament will feature several high-profile clashes in the group stage. One of the most anticipated will be between Brazil and Serbia (Group H) on 17 September, a duel between two volleyball powerhouses. Another attractive clash will be between Slovenia and Germany (Group E) on the same day.

Meanwhile, the United States, bronze medallists at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after beating Italy, will make their debut against Colombia on 13 September. Their second major challenge comes on 17 September, when they take on Cuba in a clash of regional pride.

REGIONAL CLASHES AND THE RETURN OF ITALY

The tournament will also feature intense regional clashes, such as the clash between Egypt and Tunisia on 18 September, an African volleyball classic. Three-time world champions Poland take on the Netherlands on 17 September in what promises to be a thrilling match.

Italy, the defending champions, will be looking to get off on the right foot on their way to another title when they take on Algeria on 14 September in a match that will test their strength as favourites.

FRANCE AND ARGENTINA: A MUST-WIN CLASH

All eyes will be on Paris 2024 Olympic champions France, who make their debut against Korea Republic on 14 September. However, the highlight will be their clash against Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists Argentina on 18 September, in a match that could define the fate of Group F.

Both teams will arrive with ambitions of topping their group and advancing to the finals, which adds even more intensity to this match-up.

KNOCKOUT STAGES SCHEDULE

The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 16, scheduled for 20-23 September. The excitement will continue with the quarter-finals from 24-25 September, followed by the semi-finals on 27 September.

The championship will culminate on 28 September with the title match, crowning the best men’s volleyball team in the world.