The final day of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2023 Preliminary Phase, held in Anaheim, concluded with triumphant victories for France, Cuba, and USA. These victorious performances unfolded on the court, enhancing the anticipation for the upcoming challenges.
France outperformed Germany, securing the last spot for the Finals scheduled in Gdansk from July 19-23. The match ended with a 3-1 win (21-25, 25-20, 25-22, 25-21), allowing France to surpass Serbia for the eighth position on the league table.
Meanwhile, Cuba showed an impressive display against Iran. Though they only needed to win a single set, Cuba ended up clinching the match with a thrilling 3-2 victory (25-22, 26-28, 25-23, 28-30, 15-20). This victory catapulted them to the 13th position in the final ranking. Consequently, China dropped to the bottom of the table and will now have to compete in the 2023 Volleyball Challenger Cup to retain their spot in the VNL for the upcoming 2024 season.
In the final match of the Preliminary Phase, the USA, hosts of Pool 5, showed their dominance by sweeping Bulgaria in straight sets, 3-0 (29-27, 25-19, 25-21). The USA seized this opportunity to ascend to the top of the standings, aided by Japan’s losses in their last two games.
As the preliminary phase wraps up, the stage is set for high-stakes matches that will test the mettle of the world’s best volleyball teams.
