Men's National Indoor Volleyball Team Performance History
The men's national indoor volleyball team has a documented history of competing in high-stakes international tournaments, ranging from regional European leagues to the global stage of the Olympic Games. While the team reached a FIVB world ranking (the official global ranking system for national teams) of 29th on July 22, 2013, they are currently unranked.
Between 2008 and 2012, the team focused heavily on the European League and various qualification rounds for the European Championships and World Championships, facing a diverse array of opponents across Europe and beyond.
Key Facts
- Peak Ranking: Ranked 29th in the FIVB world rankings as of July 22, 2013.
- Major Events: Participated in the 2012 London Olympic Games and the 2011 Olympic Test Event.
- Regional Focus: Extensive competition in the European League from 2008 to 2011.
- Notable Wins: Secured victories against nations including Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Romania, and Mexico.
Seasonal Performance Breakdown
2008: European League Debut
In 2008, the team competed in the European League against the Netherlands, Slovakia, Greece, and Portugal. The season was challenging, though the team managed notable wins against Portugal (3–1) and Greece (3–2) during the Sheffield leg of the competition.
2009: World Championship Qualifiers and European League
The 2009 season began with the 1st round of World Championship Qualifiers against Israel and Belarus, both resulting in 1–3 losses. In the European League, the team found success against Croatia, winning three matches (two 3–0 and one 3–2), but struggled against Spain and Turkey.
2010: European Championship Pursuits
The team entered the 1st round of the European Championship in Azerbaijan, securing a 3–0 win against Azerbaijan in Sheffield. However, the 2nd round qualifiers in Riga and Heraklion proved difficult, with losses to Latvia, Finland, and Greece. The subsequent European League campaign saw mixed results, including wins over Slovakia, Spain, and Romania.
2011: Olympic Test Event and European League
The 2011 European League featured competitive matches against Croatia, Belgium, and Slovenia, with the team securing several hard-fought victories. A major highlight was the Olympic Test Event at Earls Court in London, where the team defeated Mexico (3–1) and Egypt (3–1), while falling to Serbia, Brazil, and the USA.
2012: Olympic Games and Final Qualifiers
The team started 2012 strongly in the 1st round of the European Championships, sweeping Albania with two 3–0 victories. This led to their participation in the London Olympic Games at Earls Court. Despite the prestige of the event, the team faced elite competition, losing matches to Bulgaria, Australia, Italy, Poland, and Argentina. The year concluded with the 2nd round European Championship Qualifiers, where they earned a 3–2 victory over Turkey.
Competition Summary (2008-2012)
| Year | Competition | Key Opponents | Notable Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | European League | Netherlands, Slovakia, Greece, Portugal | Win vs Portugal (3-1) |
| 2009 | World Championship Qualifiers / European League | Israel, Belarus, Spain, Turkey, Croatia | 3 Wins vs Croatia |
| 2010 | European Championship Qualifiers / European League | Azerbaijan, Latvia, Finland, Greece, Romania | Win vs Azerbaijan (3-0) |
| 2011 | Olympic Test Event / European League | Mexico, Serbia, Brazil, USA, Egypt | Wins vs Mexico & Egypt |
| 2012 | Olympic Games / European Championship Qualifiers | Bulgaria, Australia, Italy, Poland, Argentina | Win vs Albania (3-0) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the team's highest FIVB world ranking?
The team was ranked 29th in the FIVB world rankings on July 22, 2013.
Which major global event did the team participate in during 2012?
The team competed in the Olympic Games held at Earls Court in London from July 29 to August 6, 2012.
How did the team perform in the 2011 Olympic Test Event?
The team achieved two victories, defeating Mexico 3–1 and Egypt 3–1, while losing to Serbia, Brazil, and the USA.
Which teams did the team consistently face in the European League?
The team frequently competed against European nations such as Spain, Slovakia, Croatia, Greece, and the Netherlands between 2008 and 2011.
Did the team win any matches during the 2012 Olympic Games?
No, the team lost all five of its matches against Bulgaria, Australia, Italy, Poland, and Argentina.