June 18, 2026-. The United States improved its record to 5-1 in the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with a commanding 3-0 (25-17, 25-12, 25-16) victory over Czechia on Thursday in Pasig City, Philippines.
It was the second meeting between the two teams in VNL competition after Czechia, making its tournament debut, defeated the United States in an epic reverse sweep (27-25 in the fifth set) in 2025.
The United States (5-1) will face Italy (4-1), the world’s top-ranked team and defending VNL champion, on Saturday, June 20. The two nations have combined to win six of the seven VNL titles, with three championships each. Italy has captured three of the last four editions.
The Americans finished with a 12-5 advantage in blocks and a 40-27 edge in kills. Both teams recorded eight aces, while Czechia committed ten more errors than the United States (15-5).
“I thought we played one of the most complete matches I’ve seen since I became head coach. It all started from the service line. I believe we made a team with excellent passing and a very efficient offense struggle,” said U.S. head coach Erik Sullivan.
“This is a long tournament and we have depth on our roster. We’ll see what we do with the lineup. We’re looking at the bigger picture, not just the next match. It will be a great opportunity to compete against an outstanding Italian team. We’re excited for the challenge,” he added.
Setter Jordyn Poulter distributed the offense brilliantly, leading the U.S. attack to a .493 hitting percentage. She also contributed three aces and one kill for a total of four points.
Opposite Jordan Thompson led the team in scoring for the second consecutive match with 15 points, including 14 kills and one block. She posted an impressive .824 hitting percentage, committing no errors in 17 attack attempts.
Middle blocker Chiaka Ogbogu dominated at the net with six blocks and was involved in several double blocks. She finished with 11 points, including four kills and one ace.
Outside hitters Logan Eggleston (11 points on nine kills and two aces) and Avery Skinner (nine points on seven kills and two blocks) both hit above .400. Skinner and libero Morgan Hentz led the team with six digs each, while Eggleston added four. Skinner and libero Lexi Rodriguez each recorded four successful receptions.
Match Schedule for Friday, June 19
In the Philippines (local time)
Dominican Republic vs. Serbia – 4:00 p.m.
United States – Rest Day
In Thailand (local time)
Canada vs. Bulgaria – 8:30 p.m.
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