Match result Poland-Egypt 3-0 (25-16, 25-21, 25-18)
Krek played from the start until the middle of the second set, scoring 11 points.
Toshiki: Please tell us what your goals were for today's match and how they went.
Kurek: This was one of our last chances to play against strong teams (before the Olympics). We especially wanted to get a feel for the atmosphere of Egypt, who we will be playing against in Paris, and to see how they play. They played with their second team, but I think we were able to see their strengths and weaknesses. We hope to repeat this result in Paris.
Toshiki: How was your condition and performance?
Kurek: I think we are all in good shape. We had a few hard days of training (after the break after the VNL Finals) so we weren't in the best shape physically, but we were good enough to win today's game. I'm happy with my performance and the performance of my teammates.
Toshiki: Did you watch the VNL finals? What did you think of the Japanese team?
Kurek: Of course I watched it. They were very good and they were close to taking it to a full set. I think anything could have happened if it had been a full set. Japan is getting better and better with each tournament every year. They are one of the favorites to win in Paris. That kind of pressure will be waiting for them in Paris. I think it would be a bigger surprise if Japan doesn't win a medal now. This is another challenge that the Japanese team has to overcome. I wish them good results, but I hope that doesn't happen against us (laughs).
Toshiki: You're playing against Japan next week.
Krek: I think Japan is the perfect opponent to raise our level right before the Olympics. I think they will play very well and push us to our limits and expose our weaknesses, which will be great for us. The friendly next week will be an important opportunity for both teams, and then we will have to focus on the Olympics.
Photo: Author