Result: Poland-Egypt 3-0 (25-16, 25-21, 25-18)
Semeniuk started the game and scored 13 points.
Toshiki: How do you feel looking back on today's game?
Semeniuk: I can't say it was an easy game. We won 3-0, but all respect to Egypt. We're not in the best physical condition because we're in the training period where we're giving it our all, but it's important to play in these conditions because it forces you to get out of your comfort zone and use your head more in difficult situations. I think we're happy with (today's result). Of course there were some areas where we could have improved, certain tactical aspects, but it wasn't so bad because we won 3-0.
Toshiki: How was your individual performance?
Semeniuk: First of all, I was happy that the coach gave me the chance to play in the starting lineup. It's important to be in the starting lineup. But I'm always ready to play in any situation. Even if I'm not in the starting lineup, I'm always ready to come off the bench and help the team. But today I'm very happy to be in the starting lineup and win 3-0. I think I played well on the court again. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's game. Tomorrow's game will be after training in the morning, but I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of play I can show because we'll be playing against a stronger opponent.
TOSHIKI: How did you spend your time after the VNL Finals?
Semeniuk: I had five days off. I spent them in my apartment back home and saw as many family members as I could. But five days is not enough. I usually play abroad in Perugia (Italy) and five days is not enough to meet everyone in Poland and talk for an hour over coffee. So this time, of course, I took a rest and enjoyed time with my fiance and my beautiful dog Kubi. It was a wonderful free time.
Toshiki: There are two more games this week and two more next week before the Olympics.
Semeniuk: We've played so many matches this summer (laughs). We still have a few matches before we leave for Paris, but I think everyone is thinking about tomorrow first. It's a tough time right now, and as I said, we have weight training tomorrow before the match, so it's important to focus on each day. We still have a few matches to prepare for Paris, but first we want to focus on the Wagner Cup.
Toshiki: Did you watch the VNL finals?
Semeniuk: I watched a little bit. I saw the end of the last set at the arena. Japan was the runner-up this time and third last year, right? So maybe they'll win next year. They're a really good team and have improved their volleyball to a pretty high level. It'll be a tough match where you'll have to take a breath every time you play against them.
Photo: Author
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