June 27, 2026.- The United States, playing in France, and Canada, competing in Slovenia, suffered tough defeats against Japan and Bulgaria, respectively, in the 2026 Men’s Volleyball Nations League.
United States Squanders Two Leads, Falls to Japan
Men’s VNL leaders Japan rallied twice to defeat the United States 3-2 (18-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-22, 15-13), preserving their unbeaten record.
With seven wins in seven matches, Japan improved to 18 points in the VNL standings, extending its lead to two points over the United States, which dropped to second place with a 5-2 record, tied with third-place Ukraine.
For the Americans, opposite Jake Hanes was the most effective player on the court, finishing with 25 points, just one fewer than Japan’s Ran Takahashi, after recording 21 kills, two blocks, and two aces.
Outside hitters TJ DeFalco (17 points) and Matt Anderson (16), along with middle blocker Merrick McHenry (12), also reached double figures in scoring.
In the team statistics, the United States held the advantage in attacks (69-66) and blocks (9-4), while Japan led in service aces (4-3). The Japanese also capitalized on the Americans’ 29 unforced errors.
Canada Falls to Bulgaria in Five Sets
Canada was unable to hold the lead on two occasions and eventually lost 2-3 (27-25, 22-25, 25-21, 18-25, 11-15) to Bulgaria in the penultimate matchday of the second week of the Men’s VNL.
The Canadians dominated the blocking battle 11-5, but Bulgaria held the edge in attacks (62-46) and service aces (12-7). Canada was unable to take advantage of Bulgaria’s 39 unforced errors.
Opposite Sharone Vernon-Evans led Team Canada with 18 points, including two aces, while middle blocker Jackson Howe delivered an outstanding performance at the net with five blocks, finishing with 12 points.
Canada now holds a 1-6 record and remains 13th in the overall standings.
Match Schedule – June 28
The final day of Week 2 features the following matches:
In Slovenia (Local Time)
Canada vs. Brazil – 4:30 p.m.
In France (Local Time)
Cuba vs. Iran – 1:30 p.m.
United States vs. Serbia – 8:30 p.m.
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