Valentyna Brik’s dazzling display of offence guided Slovenia to an epic 3-2 (25-13, 11-25, 25-22, 23-25, 15-13) victory over Iran in the womenâs final of the 2024 WPV Sitting Volleyball Paralympics Qualifier Final, Presented by Delin Company, at Dali International Olympic Sports Centre on Wednesday.
The European powerhouse clinched the last ticket to the Paris Paralympic Games, joining hosts France, Brazil, Rwanda, China, Italy, United States and Canada.
In the riveting final showdown, Slovenia surged ahead in the opening set, showcasing their precision attacks and impenetrable defence led by captain Lena Gabrscek and standout player Brik. Despite Iranâs fight to mount a comeback, Slovenia maintained their dominance, closing out the set with a decisive 25-13 win.
Iran swiftly rallied in the second set, unleashing a relentless offensive onslaught spearheaded by Zarah Nejatiaref and Eshrat Kordestani that caught Slovenia off guard. With their determination on full display, Iran claimed the set with authority 25-11, levelling the match at one set apiece.
Tensions reached a fever pitch in the third set, as both teams fought tooth and nail for every point. Slovenia managed o edge ahead, with Klara Vrabic making key plays at the net, but Iranâs resilience shone through as they battled back. Ultimately, Slovenia clinched the set with a narrow 25-22 win, regaining the lead in the match.
Determined to turn the tide, Iran stormed back in the fourth set, seizing control of the game with their offensive pressure. Despite the Slovenian comeback late in the set, Iran held on to secure another hard-fought 25-23 win in the set, forcing the match into a decisive fifth set.
With the outcome hanging in the balance, both teams poured all their efforts into the final set. In a dramatic climax, Slovenia emerged triumphant 15-13, with Brik delivering the decisive plays to secure the championship win for her team, marking a historic moment in their journey towards the Paris Paralympic Games.
