Filipino volleyball fans were treated to a thrilling showcase of international talent as the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) returned to the Philippines for the third consecutive year. Held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the tournament featured eight of the world’s top volleyball nations battling it out for a spot in the Final Round.
Powered by PLDT Home, VNL Pasay City captivated audiences with six days of high-octane volleyball action. Japan, the United States, France, Iran, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, and Brazil brought their A-game, showcasing their skills and athleticism to a passionate Filipino crowd.
Out of the 16 teams competing in the VNL, only eight advanced to the Final Round in Lodz, Poland, where the defending champion will be crowned. This year’s VNL served as the final Olympic qualifier, with the 12 teams for the Paris 2024 Games confirmed on the last day of the tournament.
Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, France (reigning Olympic champions), Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, Serbia, Slovenia, and the United States secured their Olympic spots. The silver medalists from Tokyo, the Russian Olympic Committee, were unable to qualify, even under the Individual Neutral Athletes Delegation (INA) banner.
VNL Pasay City Delivers Playoff Drama
The Philippine leg of the VNL played a significant role in determining the playoff teams. Led by crowd favorites Japan, who finished the eliminations with a 9-3 record, France (8-4) and Brazil (6-6) also secured their spots.
Canada, a surprise contender, arrived in Manila with a 4-4 record but emerged undefeated after the Philippine leg, boasting an impressive 8-4 record and a well-deserved place among the top eight. Meanwhile, the other half of the playoff bracket includes Slovenia (11-1), Poland (10-2), Italy (9-3), and Argentina (6-6).
The final game of the VNL Pasay City leg offered an unexpected twist. While the scoreboard initially displayed a lopsided score (USA 18, Japan 0), suggesting an easy American win, the context painted a different picture. With the US team already eliminated and fielding reserves, Japan did the same due to injuries. Despite the lineup changes, the passionate Filipino crowd witnessed a thrilling match ending in a Japan sweep (25-20, 25-23, 25-19). Kento Miyaura led the way for Japan with 18 points, including five aces, securing a high note for their Philippine campaign.
Despite captain Nimir Abdel-Aziz leading the tournament in scoring with impressive performances (38, 37, 7, and 37 points, respectively), the Netherlands finished 13th out of 16 teams with a 3-9 record. Following a heartbreaking five-set loss to Canada in their final match, Abdel-Aziz hinted at potentially retiring from the national team.
Led by the dynamic duo of Stephen Maar and Eric Loeppky, Canada swept all four of their matches in the Philippines, securing their place in the Final Eight. They delivered impressive performances against Japan, Germany, Brazil, and the Netherlands, setting the stage for a potential rematch with Japan in the knockout quarterfinals.
Enhanced Fan Experience
The VNL not only delivered high-level competition but also prioritized fan engagement. Designated “Fan Zones” allowed for unforgettable interactions with players, including selfies, autographs, and video greetings. Fans could also pose with life-sized player standees and engage with tournament branding throughout the MOA Arena.
PLDT Home, a major sponsor of the event, brought their star players to interact with fans at a dedicated booth. Volleyball fans were treated to appearances from Kiesha Bedonia, Rachel Austero, Erica Santos, Kim Fajardo, Kianna Dy, Fiola Ceballos, Jules Samonte, Shiela Kiseo, Jessey de Leon, and Majoy Baron. The booth offered fans photo opportunities, charging stations, volleyball video games, and photo printing services.
Philippines Gears Up for 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship
The VNL served as a prelude to another major volleyball event on Philippine soil. International and local volleyball luminaries gathered for the ceremonial ball turnover for the upcoming 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, scheduled for September of next year. For the first time ever, 32 teams, including the Philippines, will bring in the biggest-ever edition of the global volleyball showpiece, which will be held in both the Smart-Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
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