Iran makes history by advancing to FIVB World League last six

TEHRAN,July 1(MNA) - The Iranian volleyball team defeated Poland in straight sets (25-22, 25-20, 25-22) on Sunday evening and booked a place in the 2014 FIVB World League final six for the first time in its history. The victory in Tehran’s Azadi Hall put Iran level with Pool A leader Italy with 19 points. “When we started the World League with two defeats, nobody believed in my team but we proved that we have the quality to go through,” Iran coach Slobodan Kovac told FIVB. “It's important that we win our next matches in Poland and finish top of the group.” Iran will face with bottom-placed Poland in the final pool matches next week. Shahram Mahmoudi twisted his ankle in the match and he will miss the matches against Poland. President Hassan Rouhani sent a message of congratulation on advancing to World League final six. “The volleyball team has filled the hearts of the Iranians with joy. This precious victory is the result of a long-term approach and planning for volleyball that has led to your eye-catching superiority in confrontation with big world powers in volleyball,” said Rouhani in his message.