Advancing Towards Paris: Canada Defeats Ukraine at FIVB OQT

In the second match of the FIVB Olympic Qualification Tournament in Ningbo, Canada prevailed with a 3-1 victory (25-22, 23-25, 25-12, 25-11) over Ukraine. With this win, Canada improves its win-loss record to 3-2, with matches against Mexico and the Czech Republic still to come.

In a post-match interview, Canadian setter Brie King credited their victory to the increased service pressure they applied midway through the game and their point-by-point mindset. King acknowledged Ukraine’s strong play and the pressure they imposed. She expressed hope for a strong start in the team’s upcoming tournament games.

Canadian coach Shannon Winzer also weighed in on the team’s performance. Despite expressing dissatisfaction with the slow start, Winzer was pleased with how the team rallied in the second half of the match.

Discussing the turning point of the game, Winzer said that there wasn’t just one factor that changed the game’s course. The substitutions and changes made allowed the Canadian team to play systemically, taking advantage of the easy balls that appeared during the match.

Reflecting on the Canadian team’s significant improvement, Winzer highlighted the emerging talent in Canada, the team’s developed winning culture and newfound belief in their abilities. Unlike a few years ago, when the team was content to simply compete against the world’s best teams, they now believe they can defeat them. Furthermore, a new development pathway is producing technically sound players with more international experience, greatly benefiting from playing in top European leagues.

Regarding their Olympic prospects, Winzer expressed optimism. Whether or not they qualify through this tournament, their current world rank of #11 puts them on the verge of the top 10, which would likely secure them an Olympic spot via the world ranking pathway. Winzer believes that Paris 2024 are a very realistic goal for the team.

(Reported by Boris CHUNG Bok Man)