Betim, Brazil, October 28, 2015 - In the best match of FIVB Men’s Club World Championship so far, Zenit Kazan began their run in Brazil with a hard-fought win over Sada Cruzeiro 3-1 (25-20, 25-18, 19-25, 25-20). Nevertheless, the set won by the host team pushed them straight into the semifinals.
Cuban star Wilfredo León played an astonishing 22-point game, backed up by Matthew Anderson who added 13. The same number was reached by Cruzeiro’s Wallace De Souza, while teammate Yoandy Leal followed him with 12 tallies.
With León as flag-bearer and an amazing display by young setter Kobzar, Zenit Kazan created some moments of silence on the noisy Brazilian crowd by nailing the first set. If possible, the Russians grew even bigger on the next one, not only with stuff blocks and lightning serves but also a spectacular versatility on all of the players, advancing to 2-0.
However, Sada Cruzeiro rose from the ashes and shortened the gap afterwards. Yoandy Leal became dangerous, Canadian Fred Winters gave balance to the team and Sada delayed the ending. The same formula allowed the hosts to build a slim advantage on the fourth set (10-8), but Anderson switched the scores at 20-19 and Kazan rushed to the win. A tremendous ace by Leon put an end to the game.