2024 VNL May 17: Brazil and Japan Secure Three Consecutive Wins
The 2024 Volleyball Nations League continued on May 17 with six thrilling matches. The day commenced with Japan clinching a straight-set victory over Germany (25-21, 25-15, 25-22). Japanese captain Koga led the team once again, scoring a match-high 20 points and securing their third consecutive win.
The action continued as Poland dispatched France in straight sets (25-20, 25-16, 25-17), demonstrating their dominance on the court.
In Pool 1’s final match of the day, Italy overpowered Bulgaria in straight sets (25-11, 25-22, 25-19). Italian opposite Antropova was a standout performer, contributing a match-high 19 points to help her team achieve their second victory of the tournament.
Meanwhile, in Brasilia, Serbia faced Thailand, concluding the match in straight sets with a victory for the European side (25-13, 29-27, 25-19).
In another crucial match in Pool 2, Canada secured a significant win against China in four sets (25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 25-22). Canadian outside hitter Van Ryk was exceptional, scoring 27 points. This victory earned Canada 11.01 WR points, bringing them closer to the final Olympic qualifying spot through the world ranking pathway, now just less than 3 points behind the Netherlands.
The day concluded with Brazil defeating the USA in a four-set match (25-22, 25-16, 18-25, 25-19). Brazilian captain Gabi led the scoring with 24 points, helping her team to secure their third consecutive victory since the tournament’s start. This win further solidified Brazil’s strong start and their position as contenders in the tournament.
(Featured image source: Volleyball World)
(Written by Boris CHUNG Bok Man)