2025 VNL Jul 12: USA, Germany Qualify for Finals

On the penultimate day of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) preliminary round, exciting matches across all three pools determined key outcomes, including final-round qualifications and relegation battles.

In Pool 9 in Chiba, Japan, the day began with Bulgaria edging out South Korea in a five-set thriller (25-22, 25-20, 21-25, 23-25, 15-13) to claim their 4th victory of the tournament. Despite the narrow loss, South Korea moved up one spot in the rankings to escape the relegation zone, earning a crucial point in the match. Tied with Thailand at one win and five points, South Korea’s superior set ratio gave them the edge.

The second match in Chiba saw Japan defeat Poland 3-1 (25-21, 23-25, 25-23, 25-22) in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The victory improved Japan’s record to 9-2, while Poland fell to 8-3, complicating their bid for a stronger seeding heading into the final round.

In Pool 7 in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, the day opened with the Netherlands overcoming Czechia in a five-set battle (23-25, 25-23, 14-25, 25-19, 15-10). The win marked the Netherlands’ 5th of the tournament, tying them with Czechia, who also have five victories. Both teams now head into the final day with one match remaining. Following the match, Germany officially qualified for the finals, regardless of their remaining results.

The second match in Apeldoorn featured a thrilling showdown between Italy and Türkiye. Italy edged out Türkiye in another five-set encounter (25-19, 21-25, 21-25, 25-20, 15-11), maintaining their unbeaten record and extending their winning streak to 11 matches. With one match left, Italy is on the verge of completing an unbeaten preliminary round. Meanwhile, Türkiye’s record dropped to 8-3, though they remain in a strong position.

In Pool 8 in Arlington, USA, China staged a remarkable comeback against Germany, recovering from a two-set deficit to win 3-2 (22-25, 24-26, 25-21, 25-17, 18-16). The victory improved China’s record to 8-3, while Germany fell to 6-5. Despite the loss, Germany secured their place in the finals earlier in the day. Chinese outside hitter Zhuang Yushan was instrumental in the victory, scoring an impressive 27 points.

The final match of the day saw the United States defeat Canada in a nail-biting five-set clash (26-24, 23-25, 20-25, 25-21, 19-17). The win secured the USA’s 7th victory and booked the final spot in the finals in Poland. Canada, despite the loss, earned a crucial point, ensuring their safety from relegation. Canadian opposite Hilary Johnson (formerly Hilary Howe) delivered a standout performance, scoring 29 points in the hard-fought match.

With just one day remaining in the preliminary round, teams are giving their all to secure favorable positions or avoid relegation. Italy’s flawless run and the dramatic qualifications of Germany and the United States have added excitement to the tournament, while South Korea and Thailand remain locked in a tense battle at the bottom of the standings.

(Featured image source: Volleyball World)

(Written by Boris CHUNG Bok Man)