Francesca Bosio led Italy to a 3-0 (25-9, 25-6, 25-6) win over hosts France in the women’s sitting volleyball competition at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on Friday at the North Paris Arena.
Bosio contributed 16 points through 11 attacks, one block, and four aces. French captain Jenna Agbogdan Prince managed five points for her side, but it was not enough to challenge their continental rivals.
The first serve of the match by Bosio set the tone, as she delivered a precise and powerful serve that led to an attack point, putting Italy on the scoreboard. This was followed by a quick succession of serves that France struggled to handle. Lynda Medjaheri, on the receiving end, faltered under the pressure, allowing Italy to capitalise and take an early lead.
Italy continued to dominate with a combination of strong serves and tactical plays. Sara Cirelli and Giulia Bellandi were instrumental, with Cirelli contributing with a block point early on, widening the gap between the teams. France, despite their best efforts, could not find a rhythm. Their attempts were marred by errors, both in reception and attack, with players like Agbodjan Prince and Severine Baillot committing errors.
As Italy’s lead grew, France’s confidence waned. By the time the score reached 20-6, it was clear that Italy had total control. A powerful serve by Raffaela Battaglia further extended Italy’s lead, and despite a brief push from France, Italy’s consistent pressure proved too much. The set ended emphatically with France unable to return a serve from Bosio, closing the set at 25-9 in favour of Italy.
The second set continued in the same vein, with Italy maintaining their aggressive approach. Ceccatelli’s serves were particularly effective, putting France on the defensive and helping Italy to quickly establish a significant lead. Despite a few substitutions, France could not disrupt Italy’s momentum. Sara Desini made an immediate impact for Italy, further destabilising France’s defense with her powerful serves and attacks.
France’s errors, particularly in reception, continued to mount, and Italy capitalised on every opportunity. The gap between the teams grew wider as Italy’s relentless pressure left France with no answers. The set ended in a 25-6 victory for Italy.
Italy’s dominance carried into the third set, where they continued to apply pressure from the start. Flavia Barigelli and Giulia Bellandi led the charge with strong serves and attacks, quickly putting France trailing behind. France attempted to respond with tactical changes, but Italy’s well-rounded play and serving kept them in control. France’s reception errors further widened the gap as Italy maintained a comfortable lead.
As the set progressed, Italy’s consistency in attack and defence was unwavering. Alessandra Moggio and Giulia Bellandi combined to deliver the final blows, securing a 25-6 win and closing out the match in emphatic fashion.
Photo: WPV/Sinisa Kanizaj.