2006 World Championships
Russia and Azerbaijan through to finals (FIVB)
07/02/2005
Moscow,
Russia, July 2, 2005 – After only two days of the 2006
Women’s World Championship third round tournament –
Europe Pool G in Moscow, world number six Russia and
Azerbaijan (32nd) have already booked their spots in the
final round in Japan after recording their second
straight victories on Saturday.
Azerbaijan beat Czech Republic 3-0 (25-17, 25-18, 25-20)
and Russia defeated Bulgaria 3-1 (25-14, 25-18, 24-26,
25-22).
Both teams are undefeated and head into Sunday’s matches
– where they play each other – not concerned about the
result. The first match on Sunday though, between
Bulgaria (16) and the Czech Republic (26) will determine
who finishes third and fourth between the two winless
sides and therefore keep their World Championship dream
alive by entering a three-team playoff for one final
round ticket, with the third placed sides from the other
two European third round tournaments.
Saturday’s action completes a remarkable run by
Azerbaijan, who had advanced to the third round by
finishing first in their second round tournament.
Azerbaijan and Russia now join Germany and Serbia and
Montenegro (first and second in European third round
tournament), Egypt and Cameroon (Africa first round
winners), hosts Japan and defending champions Italy in
the finals.
