Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Nations League match.
Slovenia (No.4) were one of Europe’s top performers in last year’s Volleyball Nations League, reaching the semi-finals. Their opening opponent this season, Cuba (No.12), have consistently struggled against elite teams and have never beaten Slovenia in head-to-head matchups.
Slovenia
The Slovenians ended the 2024 campaign on a high, collecting 28 points in the VNL group stage and making a strong run to the semi-finals. They also reached the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games, underlining their growing stature on the world stage. In three previous meetings with Cuba, Slovenia have come out on top each time. Head coach Fabio Soli has brought a younger squad this year but added valuable experience in the form of 38-year-old setter Dejan Vinčić and long-time captain Tine Urnaut, now 36.
Cuba
Cuba wrapped up last season with disappointment, failing to get out of the group at the Pan American Cup Final Six after defeats to the USA and Canada. Their only wins came against the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The poor form has continued in 2025 — including back-to-back friendly losses to Argentina just before the VNL. New addition David Fiel returns after an 11-year absence, but his place in the starting lineup is uncertain. Overall, the Cuban squad looks considerably weaker than Slovenia’s.
Slovenia vs Cuba Prediction
Slovenia have the edge in every department — form, experience, depth, and recent head-to-head record. Cuba, in their current state, are unlikely to offer meaningful resistance. Expect a dominant performance from the Slovenians to start their VNL campaign.
