Bello Brothers make history at EuroBeachVolley 2023

The 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medallists clinched their last eight berth with a superb 21-16, 21-18 victory over the Netherlands’ 2013 World Champions Brouwer and Meeuwsen, currently ranked fourth in the world. 

While at a considerable height disadvantage against their Dutch opponents, the Bello twins more than made up for that with their speed around the court and precision. 

They forced a number of errors from their opposite numbers, were resolute in defence and clinical when they had their own chances to attack. 

When match point was secured the two sank to their knees in the sand for an emotional embrace before high-fiving members of the crowd and hugging coach and father Luis. 

The Round of 16 victory followed an equally impressive display (pictured) in their victory over home favourites Pristauz and Seidl in the Round of 24, where they held their nerve in the tightest of games to run out 24-22, 22-24, 15-12 winners. 

The match was nip and tuck throughout, with both sides producing high quality play to the delight of a sizeable crowd in the main Red Bull Arena. 

But the Bellos, were able to find the key plays when it mattered – much to the dismay of most in the stands – with Joaquin blocking superbly at the net and Javier covering behind. 

Next up for the Bellos in the quarter-finals tomorrow is a match in the Red Bull Beach Arena against Popov and Reznik of Ukraine, starting at 1.15pm (12.15pm UK time).

Images: CEV.