As expected, Filipino fans came in full force to cheer on Ran Takahashi and Japan as they opened their campaign in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Saturday.
But what no one saw coming was world No.5 Ryujin Nippon’s stunning collapse, falling to No.16 Türkiye in straight sets, 19-25, 23-25, 19-25, in their Pool G debut at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Takahashi admitted it was a tough moment for the squad, but urged his teammates to move forward and play with greater confidence and aggressiveness on defense in their next match against Canada on Monday.
“This is one of our strong points, reception and defense. We have to come out with a better reception and an aggressive defense.
“We need it for the next game. We have to focus on the next game, and we have to prepare for the next game. That’s it,” he added.
Kento Miyarua top-scored for Japan with 13 points on 11 attacks, one block, and one ace. Team captain Yuki Ishikawa added 10 points in the deflating loss.
Takahashi, meanwhile, struggled to find his rhythm throughout the contest and found himself held to just four markers.
“For sure, it was a tough moment. But we will switch our minds for the next game. Today, we also played normal, not so good, not so bad, but we need more confidence. We have to get more confidence,” he said.
The fan-favorite Takahashi, for his side, vowed to deliver a stronger performance moving forward as his way of repaying the effort and support of the Filipino fans who continue to show up for their games.
“They gave us energy. We always get power from them. I’m so happy to be here, and I want to win in front of them. For sure, next game, I want to win in front of them,” said the 24-year-old outside hitter.
“Yeah, yeah. It’s so special for me. I’m so very, very happy to be here and play here,” added Takahashi, whose previous campaigns in the Philippines were cut short by injuries.
#WATCH: Ran Takahashi draws energy from the Filipino fans, thrilled to play in front of them and aiming for a win 🇯🇵🏐
🎥 @jonashdcd /Tiebreaker Times#MWCH2025 pic.twitter.com/s20c1QDjBt
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 13, 2025
