Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2024 Olympics volleyball match
The USA team reached the group stage undefeated. American players earned 8 out of 9 possible points, losing only one in the match against Germany (3:2). In the upcoming match, they will face Brazil, who finished third in their group and scored half as many points.
USA
Technically, the Americans are rightfully considered favourites. They are the best in terms of wins in the group and team quality. However, there are two facts that challenge this. Firstly, the USA meets Brazil for the seventh time in six previous Olympics. In the last 20 years of this rivalry, the Americans have only been stronger twice. Secondly, this is one of the most intense and emotionally charged rivalries in the volleyball world, so preliminary stage results aren’t as important. Brazil in any other match and Brazil playing against the USA are two different teams.
Brazil
For the Brazilians, this will be a special match emotionally. While they’re no longer clear favourites who dominated in the 2000s and 2010s, their team has enough experienced players for whom a match with the USA is something special. It’s important for the head coach Bernardo Rezende and for key players like Bruno Rezende and Yoandy Leal. Also, Brazil have a 22-year-old outside hitter Adriano Xavier, who can come off the bench and make 50% attack efficiency.
USA - Brazil Prediction
It’s hard to imagine that this match will end with an easy victory for the USA. Brazil can cover the handicap and make life as difficult as possible for the favourites.
