The toughest possible opposition awaited Sweden in the third group-stage match of the European Volleyball Championship. Italy controlled the first set, which they took 25-18.
In the second set, Sweden kept pace and led by two points towards the end. But the Italian stars showed why they are the best in the world, turning the tables and winning 25-23.
Italy was then outplayed in the third set, which they won 25-14.
"We are so close. It's a shame we don't succeed," Isabelle Haak tells SVT.
Despite the loss, the hope of a playoff spot for Blågult is alive, thanks to the two opening victories, against Montenegro and Slovakia respectively.
On Tuesday, they face a slightly easier opponent in Croatia before the group stage concludes on Thursday against France. The top four teams from the group advance.
"I'm so proud of the team. We're so excited for the next two games," says Isabelle Haak.
