Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Volleyball World Championship match.
Iran
Iran finished eighth in the Nations League, agonisingly close to the play-offs. The squad is young but already has valuable international experience. The main threat in attack is opposite hitter Bardia Saadat, one of the top scorers in the Turkish league. The concern, however, is Iran’s tendency to gift opponents openings — in 32 of their last 34 matches they have dropped at least one set.
Egypt
Egypt remain the powerhouse of African volleyball, consistently winning continental competitions. On the world stage their results are more modest, though the team is steadily becoming more competitive. Middle blocker Mohamed Osman, voted best in his position at the African Championship, has emerged as the leader of this refreshed squad. Despite six straight defeats, the Egyptians still managed to take sets off top-10 sides Germany and Slovenia.
Iran vs Egypt Prediction
Iran are deserved favourites, but they are far from their peak form. Egypt may lack the same star quality, but they regularly pinch sets even against elite opposition. Expect a tight battle in which the Egyptians will take at least one set.
