On Sunday afternoon, both Sergiy Popov and his opponent Paolo Nicolai celebrate their birthdays in the Red Bull Beach Arena, but only one of them will be able to rejoice with a bronze medal.
Reznik starts with a block, taking the lead 1-0 in the duel against Paolo Nicolai. Long rallies, precise hits, and attacks on the second ball follow. Only in the crunch time, the Ukrainian duo manages to edge ahead by 2 points. Italy fights back, and Cottafava/Nicolai equalize at 20-20. But then, Reznik strikes again with a double hit - a shot and a block - giving Ukraine a 22-20 victory in the first set.
If Italy wants to keep their medal dreams alive, they must push for a tiebreak. Both teams return to the center court with focus, ready to deliver high-class beach volleyball to the audience. Another brutal side-out battle ensues. Popov/Reznik skillfully play their way to an emotional and historic triumph for Ukraine.
"We are very proud and happy about this medal. Thank you, Vienna, for your support and atmosphere," the team says afterwards.
