Women’s matches you can’t miss

The first three days of the 2021 FIVB Volleyball Nations League were packed with excitement with the first 24 women’s matches of the tournament played at the secure ‘bubble’ in Rimini, Italy.

Only three teams remain undefeated after their first three matches including Japan, Turkey and the United States. But there were also some major upsets and lots of remarkable individual and team performances from the best of the world.

As we head into the second block for the women with 24 Preliminary Round matches set to take place from May 31-June 2, here are some of the ones you won’t want to miss.

Don’t forget, all matches of the tournament are streamed live on Volleyball TV, so sign up now and don’t miss a thing!

Who? Brazil vs. Japan

When? Monday, May 31, 13:00 GMT

Why? Japan are one of the three undefeated teams and, in fact, the only team in the entire tournament who haven't dropped a set after playing against Thailand, China and Korea. Brazil won two of their first three meetings against Canada and the Dominican Republic, falling only to back-to-back defending champions the United States. There could not be a better opportunity for the South Americans to bounce back than against the VNL leaders, but to do so they will need to find a way to neutralise Japan’s diversified and fast-paced offence led by setter Aki Momii.

Who? USA vs. the Netherlands

When? Tuesday, June 1, 16:00 GMT

Why? The United States had a strong first week with victories against the Dominican Republic, Canada and Brazil. Some of the team’s stars like outside hitter Jordan Larson and opposite Annie Drews were in top form and the Americans will need them against a Dutch team who were one of the biggest surprises of the initial block of matches in Rimini with victories against Belgium (3-0) and Russia (3-1) and a hard-fought 3-2 defeat to Germany. Setter Britt Bongaerts was a key player for the Netherlands as were outside hitters Nika Daalderop and Anne Buijs, who produced 50 and 41 points, respectively.

Who? China vs. Turkey

When? Wednesday, June 2, 14:00 GMT

Why? Turkey were the third undefeated team with wins over Serbia (3-2), Italy (3-0) and Poland (3-1) and many would expect China to be in the same position. The young Asian squad defeated Korea (3-1) and Thailand (3-0), but lost to Japan in straight sets. The reigning Olympic champions are expected to come back stronger for week two with a few matches under their belts and they will certainly need to against a Turkish team who have been led by opposite Ebrar Karakurt (53 points and five aces) and middle blocker Eda Erdem (47 points and seven blocks).

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