2024-04-09 22:06:48
Photos: Lega Volleyball Series
Text: Editorial Cuba Noticias 360
What is most valuable and shines about Cuban volleyball in the international arena was the protagonist of the Italian Cup final. Five players born on the Island took part in the duel between Lube Civitanova and Sir Safety Perugia for the prestigious trophy of one of the countries with the most tradition in the sport of high jersey.
Yoandy Leal, Osmani Juantorena and Roberlandy Simón came out in the Lube starting lineup, which also featured 20-year-old Marlon Yant off the bench; while the initial Perugia sextet had as a reference the extraclass Wilfredo León, considered by many experts the most talented volleyball player on the planet.
The table was thus set for a new definition, the fourth in a row, between the two strongest teams in Italy, although the clash in the end left the fans wanting to see more rivalry on the Unipol Bologna Arena.
Ultimately, the score ended 3-1 for Civitanova, with partial scores (25-18, 17-25, 25-17 and 25-17), but with the name of Cuba ringing high. Center Robertlandy Simón unquestionably won the Most Valuable Player award of the final, thanks to his extraordinary offensive line of 7 attacks, 8 blocks and 2 points per direct serve.
The burly 2.08 meter player declared after receiving the distinction that the victory gives them the confidence to win again. The group’s cohesion and hunger for trophies made the difference, he said.
“I thank the fans who followed us from home. I dedicate this triumph to my family and to my mother who has been gone for 4 years and who taught me as a child to never give up,” confessed the Cuban star.
Meanwhile, Juantorena continued to write his name in Italian volleyball with golden letters, while Leal also added to his record and the promising Yant experienced his first final in professional sports.
Cuban volleyball, although it was left out of the Tokyo Olympic Games, has a promising near future with the return to the team of renowned players from around the world, such as Simón himself, and other new talents currently playing in foreign leagues.