June 25, 2026.- The United States claimed its fifth victory of the 2026 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) by defeating Iran in straight sets, while Cuba remained winless after falling to France in a five-set thriller.
United States Defeats Iran for Fifth Victory
The United States swept Iran 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 31-29) to earn its fifth win of the 2026 Men’s VNL season.
Behind outstanding performances from Cole Hartke and Matthew Anderson, the Americans secured the victory over Iran. Hartke and Anderson each scored 18 points, sharing match-high honors. Ethan Champlin also reached double figures with 11 points, while Jeffrey Jendryk II added 10 points.
The United States led all team statistics, holding advantages in attacks (51-49), blocks (6-5), and service aces (5-2). Iran committed 19 unforced errors, compared to 16 by the Americans.
The victory temporarily moves the United States into first place in the overall standings with a 5-1 record, although they have played one more match than Japan, which remains unbeaten at 5-0.
Cuba Falls to France in Five Sets
Cuba lost a hard-fought 2-3 (22-25, 25-21, 27-25, 20-25, 13-15) match to host nation France. The defeat leaves Cuba in 18th place in the overall standings, still searching for its first victory with a 0-6 record.
Cuba outperformed France in blocks (11-10), while the Europeans held the edge in attacks (63-60) and service aces (7-2). It was a match filled with unforced errors, as Cuba committed 31 and France 34.
Five Cuban players reached double figures in scoring. Miguel Ángel López led the team with 19 points, followed by Marlon Yant with 16, Israel Masso with 13, Robertlandy Simón with 11, and Javier Concepción with 10.
Match Schedule – Friday, June 26
In Slovenia (Local Time)
Canada vs. Ukraine – 4:30 p.m.
In France (Local Time)
Cuba vs. Serbia – 8:30 p.m.
United States: Rest day.
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