TEHRAN – Iran eased past the U.S. in straight sets (25-21, 25-20, 25-20) in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s U21 World Championship semifinals on Saturday.

Ali Mombeni led Iran with 19 points, while Cole Hartke scored 13 points for the U.S.

Iran will play Italy on Sunday in the final match, while the U.S. lock horns with Czech Republic in bronze medal match.

Iran had previously defeated Kazakhstan, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Canada, Poland, Argentina and China in the competition.

In 2023, Iran defeated Italy in a five-set final to capture the title, while Bulgaria secured the bronze over Argentina.

The competition  is being held in Jiangmen, China.

Photo: volleyballworld.com