Italian middle blocker Cristina Chirichella tries to overcome Fabiana Claudino's block
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, June 9, 2016 – Brazil got their World Grand Prix off on the right foot with a a 3-1 (23-25, 25-15, 25-15, 27-25) win over Italy as their block prevailed.
José Roberto Guimarães, Brazil coach – “I knew that would be a difficult game. Italy has a team with strong players. We suffered in the fourth set and it cannot happen. It was our first official game of the season and we need to give opportunity to all players of our team."
Fabiana Claudino, Brazil captain – “It was an important game. The key fact of this game was the vibration of the fans. It is really good to play in our home. Now we have to think to get better for our next game against Japan. FIVB World Grand Prix will help us to know how our team is."
Paola Egonu, Italy Opposite Hitter - “It is important to this experience in Brazil. For me was amazing to be able to play aginst Strong teams. It does no matter the result in the end, but the experience that I got from it. I am happy to have this opportunity."