Nishida provides Japan with momentum

High-leaping opposite Yuji Nishida is back at work, providing Japan with additional momentum in the final stretch of the 2021 FIVB Volleyball Nations League Preliminary Round.

Japan played without Nishida for three full weeks and he only saw action in the fourth week, when they lost two matches against Poland and Canada in straight sets.

But appearing as a starter in their match against Bulgaria on Monday, the left-handed dynamo was back to fighting form as he helped Japan to a straight-sets victory with 23 points.

His 23 markers were built from 20 attacks and three stuff blocks, momentum-changing and crowd-pleasing numbers for someone who is recovering from an injury.

Japan now have a 2-1 edge against Bulgaria in the VNL. Bulgaria won 3-0 in 2018, then Japan responded in 2019 with a tie-break triumph at 21-19 in the final set.

Japan’s four previous wins against Bulgaria at world level were decided by a 3-2 scoreline, and their latest straight-sets victory is an indication that they are gaining momentum.

“As a team, we were able to have good rhythm on block and defence. We connected with each other really well and that is the reason we won this match,” Nishida said.

“I have just started playing again since my injury. In this situation, the priority now is how I can help the team to win and gain better results in the VNL.”

Nishida is also part of Japan’s Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games roster as announced by their national federation on Monday.

He is honoured to be part of the Olympics for the first time, but wants to take it step by step and see how he can support his team’s campaign in Tokyo.

“I am really happy to play today and for being considered as an Olympic athlete. The most important thing now is to think of my full recovery, then think of how I can contribute to the team.

“My goal, of course, is to work towards a good momentum shift. We are now on our way to improving. Once we convene with the complete team for the Olympics, we will start our preparation to face the strong challengers in the Olympic Games.”

The 21-year-old is focused on his role in the team, and he is ready for more high-flying adventures.

“The opposite is the ace of the team, and as one of the aces of the team, changing the mood or momentum in difficult situations is important. I have to level up on my skills and work on combination plays and my connection with the other players.”