Friday, 17 May 2024

U.S. Women’s Volleyball Team Faces First Loss at FIVB World Championship

Volleyball

The U.S. Women’s National Team experienced their first loss at the FIVB World Championship, facing off against China, currently ranked number one in the world. In the second round Pool F match held in Osaka, Japan, China swept the Americans with a score of 25-17, 26-24, and 25-18.

Quick Sets

  • Key Stat: China out-blocked the U.S. 9-3 and committed fewer errors throughout the match.
  • Key Note: The U.S. still has a chance to advance to the third round (Final Six) by defeating undefeated Italy, who currently holds the top spot in the pool.
  • Records: USA (7-1, 19 points), China (7-1, 21 points)
  • World Rankings: USA No. 2, China No. 1
  • 2018 Season Record: 33-5
  • Up Next: USA vs. Italy (8-0, 24 points) on October 11 at 3:10 a.m. ET

The U.S. Women’s National Team has one more match in the second round against Italy, scheduled for October 11 at 3:10 a.m. ET. To automatically qualify for the third round, they need a victory in this match. However, if they lose to Italy, the Americans can still advance if Russia loses to China.

Italy secured their spot in the third round by defeating Russia 3-1 earlier today. China’s victory against the USA moved them into second place, while the Americans dropped to third. Russia currently sits in fourth place but can secure the third spot if they defeat the U.S. with the help of Italy.

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The match against China proved challenging for the U.S. Women’s National Team. Despite overcoming an early deficit in the first set and rallying in the second set, they were unable to close the gap. China’s strong performance led them to secure a victory in each set.

“I want to congratulate China for playing a very strong volleyball match today,” said U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach Karch Kiraly. “They were stronger than we were in lots of phases. Our team is looking forward to a chance to get back on the court tomorrow against a very good Italy team in the next match in this group.”

Player Performances

Jordan Larson

In the match against China, outside hitter Jordan Larson led the American team with 14 points, including 12 kills, one block, and one ace. Michelle Bartsch-Hackley contributed eight kills and one ace, while Karsta Lowe provided nine kills. Kelly Murphy charted six kills and a block, and Foluke Akinradewo had seven kills.

Libero Kelsey Robinson showcased her defensive skills with 13 digs and 18 receptions. Larson also contributed with six digs. Bartsch-Hackley played a solid game with 32 errorless receptions and eight digs.

Match Statistics

The U.S. converted 39% of their attacks into points with a .254 hitting efficiency. China, on the other hand, had a higher conversion rate, scoring 50% of their attacks and achieving a .439 hitting efficiency. China also out-blocked Team USA 9-3 and had a slight advantage in aces, kills, and digs.

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Looking Ahead

The U.S. Women’s National Team has a challenging match ahead against Italy, who is undefeated in the second round. The outcome of this match will determine whether the American team qualifies for the third round. The players and coaching staff are determined to bounce back from their loss and give their best effort against Italy.

FAQs

  1. When is the next match for the U.S. Women’s National Team?

    • The next match is scheduled against Italy on October 11 at 3:10 a.m. ET.
  2. What is the team’s record in the 2018 season?

    • The team currently holds a record of 33-5 in the 2018 season.

Conclusion

The U.S. Women’s National Team faced a tough loss against China in the FIVB World Championship. Despite this setback, they still have a chance to advance to the third round by defeating Italy in their next match. The players and coaching staff remain optimistic and are focused on delivering a strong performance in their upcoming games. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey in the championship.