VNL 2026

Ran shines as Japan come back twice to continue undefeated

The Asians outlasted the USA in Orléans and kept their spot at the top of the standings

Published 05:57, 27 Jun 2026

USA (USA) vs. Japan (JPN) - Pool 4 - Preliminary Phase #109589121

Ran scored 26 points and helped Japan continue as the number one team in the VNL 2026

Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 leaders Japan had their status as the only undefeated team in the tournament strongly challenged for a second-straight day in Orléans, France, on Saturday, and again they responded to it by coming out on top in a thriller.

One day after defeating continental rivals Iran in the tiebreaker, they had to come back twice to beat the United States 3-2 (18-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-22, 15-13) in the French city and keep their record clean.

USA vs. Japan - Highlights | Men's VNL 2026

Watch the Volleyball Nations League 2026 on VBTV

With seven victories in as many matches, the Japanese got to 18 points in the VNL standings and have a two-point lead over the United States, which moved to second place with five wins and two losses, the same campaign as third-placed Ukraine.

With captain Yuki Ishikawa limited to only seven points and opposite Yuji Nishida out of the match, outside hitter Ran Takahashi stepped up and led Japan with an incredible performance.

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The 24-year-old outside hitter had his most productive match in the VNL 2026 so far, delivering 26 points (22 kills, two blocks, two aces), including the game-winner to lead the Japanese to victory.

Opposite Kento Miyaura also had a big role in their victory, adding 20 points, all in kills.

"We knew that his match was going to be very difficult," Miyaura said. "But we were ready for it, and I think we played better than yesterday. The fans here are amazing, and I really appreciate the unbelievable atmosphere they're creating."

On the American side, opposite Jake Hanes was the most effective player on the court, trailing Ran by just one point with his 25-point performance that included 21 kills, two blocks and two aces.

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Outside hitters TJ DeFalco (17 points) and Matt Anderson (16) and middle blocker Merrick McHenry (12) also got to double digits in scoring.

On Sunday, Japan will try to end the second week still undefeated, facing back-to-back Olympic champions and hosts France at 17:00 local time (15:00 GMT). Later, at 20:30 (18:30 GMT), the USA will try to pick up one more win before returning home in their match against Serbia.

VNL 2026 schedule and results
VNL 2026 ticket information