SERBIA finally returned to the win column after overpowering the Dominican Republic, 25-19, 25-23, 25-18, on Friday, June 19, in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

The victory allowed the Serbs to bounce back from consecutive heartbreaking five-set defeats and improve their record to 2-5 in the FIVB’s premier annual international competition presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.

Explosive 21-year-old Anja Zubic led the Serbian attack with 15 points built on 12 attacks, two blocks, and one ace. Nina Cajic also delivered an all-around effort with 12 points, including 10 attacks and two blocks, as Serbia controlled the match from start to finish.

Zubic Powers Serbia

Serbia showed renewed energy after suffering marathon losses to world No. 5 Japan and top-ranked Italy in its previous two outings. This time, the Europeans dictated the tempo early and never allowed the Dominican Republic to build sustained momentum.

The straight-set triumph lifted world No. 10 Serbia closer to the middle of the standings as the race for the top eight spots entering the Finals in Macau continues.

World No. 2 Brazil remained unbeaten with a perfect 6-0 record while competing in the Ankara, Türkiye leg. Japan, one of the six participating teams in the Pasig City leg, also stayed undefeated at 5-0 entering Friday’s matches.

Dominicans Still Searching

The Dominican Republic continued its difficult campaign, dropping to 0-7 after another disappointing performance in the preliminary round.

Geraldine Sthefany Gonzalez paced the Dominican Republic with 11 points, collecting six attacks and five blocks. Jineiry Martinez added 10 points on eight attacks and two blocks, but the Dominicans struggled to keep pace with Serbia’s balanced offense.

With the preliminary phase entering its crucial stretch, the Dominican Republic will need to quickly regroup as it searches for its first victory of the tournament, while Serbia hopes to build momentum after ending its skid.