2017 WORLD GRAND CHAMPIONS CUP
- Women – September 5-9
- Men – September 12-17
- Nagoya and Osaka, Japan
- Women – Schedule/Results
- Men – Schedule
- Power Rankings
Iran is coming off a four-set win against hosts, Japan, at the World Grand Champions Cup and will fight for a shot at the top prize in a match against France.
Iran started off the competition with two five-set wins over Italy and Team USA but fell to Brazil on day three. They are currently sitting in third place overall behind Italy and Brazil, who hold the same record but a two-point advantage. A three-set win over the Frenchmen could put them in contention, but they are likely out of reach of the first place slot.
Iran has been led by Amir Ghafour and Ghara H. Milad Ebadipour who have put down 66 and 60 points, respectively. The two have traded off their matches of being the lead man for the Iranians but the duo is what is keeping Iran in contention for a potential first or second place finish.
France, on the other hand, does not have much of a shot in the competition and are fighting for a potential fourth-place finish. This is their first year in the competition, but are coming off a strong summer – winning the FIVB World League over Brazil.
The Frenchmen have not been themselves this tournament, missing their start, Earvin N’gapeth, due to an injury. The top France scorer is Thibault Rossard with 37 points. They will need to see more scoring from other players on a more consistent basis to hang with the Iranian powerhouse.
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