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Shock in Adelaide: Latvia Topples Top Seed and Enters Gold Medal Match
Olivia Parker • November 23rd, 2025 1:47 am
In a thrilling semi-final showdown at the Beach Volleyball World Championships this evening, the world number five Latvian duo, Tina and Anastasija, pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by defeating world number one Thamela and Victoria.
The victory propels them into the gold medal match, buoyed by a strong and enthusiastic fan base here in Adelaide.
Despite the magnitude of their win, Tina remained remarkably composed after the match, seemingly unfazed by the fact they had just toppled the world’s top-ranked team.
“We beat world number one. That does feel good. That feels amazing,” she said in the post-match interview.
Anastasija added, “Yes, they're a good team, and we have played them a couple of times this year and lost. It was always going to be an intense game. So we are really happy that we won this one at the World Championships.”
The question on everyone’s mind was what made the difference in this high-stakes clash. Tina explained that their approach was rooted in preparation and tactical execution.
“World Championships is just another tournament. You're fighting for the title, and here we just follow our tactical analysis, our tips from the coach, and try to do our best and be aggressive. That, plus great mental preparation throughout the year, helped.”
The pair’s journey this season has been a mix of physical rigour and mental conditioning. When asked whether mindset or physical training played a bigger role, Tina emphasised the balance.
“Definitely a lot of physical training, but we've had a lot of wins and losses this year. Our coach guided us through each one, helping us to focus and improve after every single game. It has all come together at the end of the year.”
Their connection with fans has also been a huge boost. Tina praised the supporters in Adelaide, saying, “I feel so loved, so supported. We are just so happy because we have great people around us. The crowd supports us, and we’ve been playing great volleyball. What more could you ask for?”
Preparation ahead of the tournament played a key role as well. Tina described staying at a local family’s home as invaluable. “Oh my God, it was amazing because we had a home-cooked meal, separate bedrooms, we could rest very well, eat very well, and get a feeling like we were at home. It really helped us focus.”
Looking ahead to the gold medal match, Tina and Anastasija are keeping their eyes on the prize without letting the semi-final victory overshadow their next challenge.
“It feels amazing to be in the finals, but nothing has been earned yet. Tomorrow is a very important game, and we're going to try to keep the same focus and fighting mentality and go in to fight, not just enjoy and have fun. We’ll fight for every single point.”
With the city of Adelaide firmly behind them and momentum on their side, the Latvian duo heads into the final full of confidence but fully aware that the battle isn’t over until the last point is played.
