PSL-F2 Logistics Moro Branislav. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
PSL-F2 Logistics’ Serbian coach Moro Branislav tempered expectations for the Philippine representatives in the upcoming the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship.
The Philippines, who will be hosting the world championships this October, will field a team composed of locals and foreign reinforcements against the best club teams in the world.
Branislav likened the opponents’ caliber to the NBA teams and even referenced Spanish football giants Barcelona and Real Madrid.
“The Philippine team may not win, understand? But my players will try everything,” Branislav told INQUIRER.net Thursday at San Juan De Dios gym after their practice game against Philippine Army. “Maybe, this week they will play better.”
PSL-F2 Logistics is grouped with defending champions Eczacibasi Vitra Istanbul, European Champions League winners Pomi Casalmaggiore, and South American champions Rexona-Sesc Rio in Pool A.
Bangkok Glass, the third-placers in the Asian Women’s Club Championship, is in Pool B with 2014 Asian champions Hisamitsu Springs Kobe, 2013 World champions VakifBank Istanbul, and 2015 bronze medal holders Volero Zurich.
Volero is the previous team of Yevgeniya Nyukhalova, one of the Philippines’ imports for the tournament.
Branislav added the Philippines’ hosting of the World Championships is a tremendous victory for the local volleyball scene pointing out the massive reach the tournament will cause for the sport.
“This is a big score for Philippine volleyball because of the promotion, the big number of people, and the big number of children who will come to watch.”