MANILA – Japan continued its dominant run in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League after surviving a tough challenge from Czechia, pulling off a straight-sets victory, 25-15, 25-23, 27-25, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City on Friday.
The Japanese squad once again leaned on its balanced attack, with Yoshino Sato firing 21 points, including a blistering start in the opening frame. Team skipper Mayu Ishikawa also delivered a solid performance with 16 all-offensive points to help Japan secure another win and remain unbeaten after six matches.
The result kept Japan level with Brazil in the standings, as the South American powerhouse continues its own campaign in the Ankara leg of the tournament. Both teams remain among the top performers in the 18-nation competition.
Czechia, meanwhile, saw its early momentum fade after dropping a third straight match despite double-digit scoring efforts from Michaela Mlejnkova and Gabriela Orvosova.
In another fixture, Serbia powered past the Dominican Republic in straight sets, showing strong control from start to finish.
Japan now turns its attention to its next assignment against the Dominican Republic, while Italy prepares for a marquee clash with the United States as the battle for the top eight spots intensifies heading toward the Macau finals.
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