2024 VNL May 14: Teams Fight for Crucial WR Points for Paris 2024

The first day of the Volleyball Nations League 2024 unfolded with intense competition across two pools, marking the start of a pivotal tournament that could influence Olympic qualification prospects.

In the opening match of the competition in Antalya, the Netherlands made a strong statement against Bulgaria, securing a victory in straight sets (25-14, 25-20, 25-22). Ranked 10th in the FIVB Senior World Rankings, and currently holding the last qualifying spot for Paris 2024, the Dutch team garnered essential WR points, enhancing their standing in the Olympic race.

The dynamics of European volleyball were on full display as Italy clashed with Poland. Despite entering as favorites, the Italian team, which needs to qualify through the World Ranking pathway, faced a setback, losing in straight sets (26-28, 23-25, 21-25). This loss resulted in a drop of 11 world ranking points for Italy, moving them down to 7th place, while Poland ascended two places in the standings, surpassing both China and Italy.

In Rio de Janeiro, China demonstrated their prowess with a commanding 3-0 win over South Korea (25-15, 25-16, 25-14). Li Ying-ying was the standout performer, delivering an impressive 17 points across the match, bolstering her team’s strong start in the tournament. Additionally, the game marked the return of Chinese outside hitter Zhang Changning to the national team, her first appearance since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Brazil, playing in front of their home crowd, ended the day with a hard-fought 3-1 win against Canada (26-24, 23-25, 26-24, 25-12). Canada, ranked 11th, faced a loss of 2.85 WR points, further complicating their path to Olympic qualification.

The opening day of VNL 2024 not only provided high stakes and spectacular volleyball action but also significant shifts in world rankings, setting an intense tone for the remainder of the competition.

(Featured image source: Volleyball World)

(Written by Boris Chung Bok Man)