Japan stretched its winning streak to six after a commanding sweep of Czechia, 25–15, 25–13, 27–25, in the ongoing Week 2 of the 2026 FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, on Friday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Coming off a thrilling upset of Serbia two nights earlier in front of Filipino fans, Hinotori Nippon showed flashes of brilliance throughout the match, although the Czechs managed to keep each set close in its early stages.
The Europeans, who had built momentum before dropping the first two sets, appeared poised to take the third after establishing a 16–13 lead, highlighted by a powerful spike from Gabriela Orvošová, before Japan forced an extended finish.
In the end, however, Japan would not be denied, as Wada Yuki closed the match with three consecutive kills to seal the victory in one hour and 24 minutes.
The 24-year-old Yoshino Sato was once again pivotal for the World No. 5 side, finishing with 21 points built on 18 attacks, two blocks, and an ace in the opening set. She also added 12 digs and four excellent receptions on defense.
“I think we played well today. We had some team targets, not just the result, but also some efficiency in the tactical approach. It was not very successful, so we always try different rotations, different players, and it always works. So, it is now six out of six. So, we will try our best again tomorrow and the next day,” said Japan head coach Ferhat Akbaş.
Czechia started strong, taking an early 8–5 lead, but Japan quickly shifted momentum and surged ahead at 14–11 behind Sato’s three straight booming kills.
Sato then took control from the service line, helping Japan extend the gap to double digits at 23–13. The outside hitter nearly closed out the set herself, redeeming an earlier attack error with a well-placed back-row kill for her 10th point of the frame.
The Europeans showed renewed resistance in the second set, but Japan tightened its grip through disciplined defense and efficient transition attacks, consistently shutting down Czechia’s attempts to finish rallies.
Hinotori Nippon produced 12 digs that turned into 16 attack opportunities, most of which came in transition. A clear example came from captain Mayu Ishikawa, who delivered a booming kill off a perfect set from Sato, bringing Japan within reach of a 2–0 lead.
Ishikawa finished with 16 points, all from attacks, while Wada added 13 points on 10 attacks, including the three match-sealing spikes, along with one block and two service aces.
Japan will now target a seventh straight win when it faces the Dominican Republic, which is still searching for a breakthrough. The match is scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m.
Michaela Mlejnková led Czechia with 13 points on 11 attacks and two blocks, while Orvošová finished with 11 points on 10 kills and a block.
The European side, now 3–4, will take on the same Caribbean squad in Sunday’s 4 p.m. encounter.
