WILFREDO LEON added another medal to his FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship silver medal 15 years ago after powering Poland to a 25-18, 23-25, 25-22, 25-21 victory over Czechia and a bronze medal finish yesterday at the MOA Arena.
The lion-hearted, power-hitting 32-year-old, 6-7 spiker was an unstoppable force on this one as he unloaded a match-high 26 points including 23 kills as the Poles settled for the bronze, their fourth straight podium finish and sixth overall.
It added to the World No. 1’s impressive haul in the quadrennial meet that included three gold and two silvers.
It was extra special for Mr. Leon, who also had the silver when he played for Cuba, the country of his birth, in the 2010 edition in Italy.
“I was a very good fight and we were happy we won,” said Mr. Leon.
Mr. Leon said he’s looking forward to playing more games for the Poles in future tournaments.
“For sure, we will be very motivated and I have another opportunity for myself to show up. Hopefully we’ll get more experience,” he said.
The Bialo-Czerwoni blew hot and cold early, dominating the opening set and blew a comfortable lead in the next that allowed the Czechs to snatch the set and knot the count at a set apiece.
But the Poles rediscovered themselves in the final two frames and had all the answers against the rallying Czechs to seal the deal.
The bronze also somehow soothed the sting of Poland’s semis defeat to Italy the day before. — Joey Villar
