Brazil dominated from start to finish, denying China in a three-set sweep with scores of 25-19, 25-17, and 25-17 on the penultimate day of the 2023 FIVB Volleyball Men’s Nations League preliminary phase, held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday.
The Canarinhos ended the preliminary phase with an 8-4 win-loss record, currently placing them in third position.
Having already secured a spot in the Final Round, Brazil coach Renan Dal Zotto fielded a different lineup against the Asian team. Opposite hitter Felipe Roque made his first start in this leg, leading the world No. 4 to victory in the first set with a score of 25-19.
Roque eventually sealed the deal with 12 spikes, four blocks, and one service ace.
“It feels completely different when you start the match compared to coming off the bench. I was quite nervous initially, but eventually, I played freely. I was there to help stop Zhang Jingyin, and I’m happy that I succeeded,” said the 26-year-old standout, reflecting on his performance.
In the second set, the South Americans continued to exploit their height advantage against China, forcing the latter to adopt creative attacking strategies. Outside hitters Zhang and Yu Yuantai managed to score some points through combination plays, but Brazil ultimately secured a 2-0 advantage.
In the third set, Brazil had to counter China’s renewed energy, with outside hitter Wang Bin receiving extended playing time. Once again, Brazil triumphed at the net to secure the victory.
Henrique Otávio also had an impressive debut in the pool, contributing 11 points, including eight attacks, one block, and two service aces. Lucarelli Souza added eight points.
Brazil will now await their quarterfinal opponent, with matches scheduled for July 19 and 20 in Gdansk, Poland.
Wang led the Chinese team with 11 points from nine attacks and two service aces, while top player Zhang struggled, managing only nine points with a surprising 12 percent attacking efficiency.
China, now with a 2-9 record, will face Canada in a crucial match that could determine their VNL fate. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 11 a.m.
