It was the first of many on Sunday in Paris for Italy’s women’s volleyball team, as they dominated their way to a historic finish on the final day of the Olympics.
- First-ever Olympic medal (GOLD)
- First-ever Quarter/Semi/Final Olympic Wins
- First in World Rankings
The Italians, who had not lost a single set since the opening round, won Sunday’s gold medal match 3-0 over the U.S.
It was billed as a clash between the world’s top-ranked team (Italy) and the defending gold medalists (the U.S.).
The Italians let their star, Paola Egonu, set the tone with her superior opening play (11 points in the first set alone).
Italian flags waved in the crowd at a packed South Paris Arena.
Prior to this weekend, Italy had never medaled in women’s volleyball at the Olympics. They are far from a traditional power. They had never even won an Olympic quarterfinal, according to Yahoo! Sports.
Italy ranks ninth in the overall standings, as its’ Olympians have taken home 40 medals (12 gold, 13 silver, 15 bronze).
Watch the highlights here.
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