The VNL Men’s Week 1 had plenty of exciting moments, from dance-offs, high-scoring feats, returning and incoming stars, down to the spectacular plays. We’ve listed down our top picks that had us going “Whoa!” during the opening week of the men’s VNL.
VNL 2023
VNL moments that made us go, ‘Whoa!’: Men’s Edition
The scene stealers of the 2023 VNL, this time for Men’s Week 1
Published 01:19, 12 Jun 2023
Two are better than one
On Week 1 of the Women’s VNL, the Dominicans showed us their dance moves, but the men stepped it up a notch and showed us they could dance too…or should we say dance TWO? Yes, Japan and Slovenia indulged us with their dance moves that gave good vibes. Men’s Week 1 dancers are Japan’s Tomohiro Yamamoto, Yuki Ishikawa and Ran Takahashi, and Slovenia’s Alen Pajenk, Klemen Cebulj and Rok Mozic.
Jesus Saves
Jesus Herrera amassed 30 points, including 26 kills, two blocks and two aces, saving Cuba against Brazil in the tiebreaker. The left-handed opposite became the first player in the 2023 Men's VNL to hit the 30-point mark.
Fantastic Faure
France may have only won one match so far, but 23-year-old Theo Faure’s performance against Poland is an indication that even without their big stars around, there will always be someone who could fill in their shoes and deliver an impressive performance. Faure had a team-high 28 points built from 23 attacks, three blocks and two service winners against the former world champions. Faure is Week 1's best scorer with a point tally of 79.
It's a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Matt Anderson!
The United States’ very own Superman, Matt Anderson, is back after a two-year hiatus in the national team. Welcome back, Matt!
Abouba, AbouBOMB!
Brazil’s got a rising star in Aboubacar 'Abouba' Dramé! Left-handed opposite Abouba played a key role in his first VNL, leading Brazil to win 3-2 against South American rivals Argentina. He’s got a powerful arm and he is explosive!
Look ma, no hands!
Fans say United States setter Micah Christenson is one of the smartest setters. We agree! Watch Micah on defence as he reads the attack and fakes a block, turning a point in their favour as the ball goes out of bounds. That’s very high volleyball IQ for you!
Over the top
This spike from Ali Hajipour deserves to be in any highlights reel! Look at that elevation and powerful finish! As soon as he took off, Japan’s blockers had no chance to block that attack as the Iranian towered over for the strong swing and ball bounce.
Ryujin Nippon’s ridiculously next-level foot saves
Japan’s defence was on point against Serbia in their 3-1 home win in Nagoya. Ryujin Nippon played defence like they were recreating a scene of a manga series as Ran Takahashi, Masahiro Sekita and Yuki Ishikawa kept the ball in play using their foot! Playing defence seems effortless for these guys with these crazy foot saves! They are simply amazing!
Be part of the energy of the 2023 VNL! Watch out for more ‘whoa’ moments each week on VBTV!
