June 12, 2026.- The United States secured its second victory of the opening week of the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in Pool 1, in Ottawa, Canada, while Cuba suffered its second defeat in Pool 3, taking place in Linyi, China.
USA Wins Its Second Match in the Men’s VNL
The United States had no trouble defeating Germany 3-0 (25-22, 25-15, 25-20) to claim its second victory in the Men’s VNL and remain undefeated in the young tournament.
The win moved the Americans into first place in the overall standings with a 2-0 record and six points (six sets won and one lost), ahead of Brazil, which also holds a 2-0 record and six points but has won six sets and lost two.
Jake Hanes led the United States throughout the match. The opposite hitter finished with five blocks and 14 attack points for a total of 19 points, becoming the only American player to reach double digits in kills.
In team statistics, the United States outperformed Germany in attacks (41-27) and blocks (9-2), with Hanes contributing five of those blocks. The Europeans were more effective from the service line, leading 4-2 in aces. In unforced errors, the United States committed 24 while Germany recorded 23.
Cuba Loses to Ukraine
Cuba dropped its second match in as many outings, this time falling to Ukraine, whose offense proved too strong for the Caribbean squad in a 3-0 victory (25-21, 25-20, 25-16).
Outside hitter Miguel González was the only Cuban player to reach double digits in scoring. He finished with 14 points, including one block and one ace.
Cuba held the advantage in service aces (3-2), but Ukraine dominated the other team statistics, leading in attacks (40-35) and blocks (9-4). The Ukrainians also benefited from Cuba’s 24 unforced errors, while committing only 15 themselves.
The loss dropped Cuba to 18th place in the overall standings with an 0-2 record. The team has yet to earn a point in the competition.
Schedule for Saturday, June 13
In Ottawa, Canada (Local Time) – Canada vs. United States – 16:00
In Linyi, China (Local Time) – Cuba vs. Slovenia – 20:00
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