July 16, 2026.- The United States earned a straight-set victory over Brazil to secure a place in the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Finals, while Canada suffered another heartbreaking five-set loss, this time against Japan.
United States Secure Their Spot in the VNL Finals
Outside hitter TJ DeFalco delivered a spectacular performance to lead the United States in front of their home crowd in Chicago. The Americans defeated their longtime rivals 3-0 (25-23, 25-19, 25-19), earning their second victory of the week.
With their eighth win in ten Preliminary Phase matches, the United States improved to 25 points and remained in second place in the 2026 VNL standings, officially securing a berth in the Finals.
DeFalco was the driving force behind the American victory, recording seven service aces—the fifth-highest total in VNL history and the best ever in a three-set match. He also added seven kills and four blocks to finish as the match’s top scorer with 18 points.
“These two teams have had many great battles since the 1960s,” DeFalco said. “We came into the match determined to stop them as much as possible, and I think we did an incredible job. It was one of the best serving nights of my career, and hopefully we can carry that momentum into the next matches.”
Outside hitter Matt Anderson and opposite Jake Hanes also contributed 13 points each for the Americans.
In the team statistics, the United States outperformed Brazil in attacks (35-32), blocks (13-5), and aces (9-6). The Americans committed 17 unforced errors, while Brazil had 18.
Canada Battles Until the End Against Unbeaten Japan
In a thrilling match in Osaka, Canada got off to a sensational start against undefeated Japan but eventually fell in five sets. Japan completed a reverse sweep to win 3-2 (18-25, 24-26, 29-27, 25-19, 15-11).
“We’re fighting for our lives out here,” an emotional Jackson Young said after the match. “I love this team so much, and we’re fighting for every match. We’ve been so close so many times, and that’s tough. But we never stop battling. We know these next two matches will be a fight and an emotional roller coaster. We just have to keep our heads down and keep pushing forward.”
Japan led the team statistics in attacks (74-66) and aces (4-2), while Canada dominated at the net with a 16-5 advantage in blocks. Japan also held a slight edge in unforced errors, 24-28.
“Congratulations to Japan. It’s incredible that we won most of the statistical categories except transition opportunities,” said Canadian head coach Dan Lewis. “In the key moments, we need to stay focused and aggressive, and we also have to improve our attacking in those situations.”
Jackson Young led Canada’s offense with 21 points, finishing as the match’s top scorer for his team. Jackson Howe added 17 points, Xander Ketrzynski scored 16, while Daenan Gyimah ‘Kofi’ and Skyler Varga each contributed 10 points.
Canada now has one victory and nine losses, with seven of those defeats coming in five-set matches.
The Canadians now face a crucial showdown against Cuba on Saturday, with both teams battling to remain in the 2027 VNL.
Match Schedule – July 17
In Japan (local time)
Cuba vs. Argentina – 1:00 PM
Canada and the United States have the day off.
English 
Spanish