Only a win against Russia in the last round match of Pool G1 in Hong Kong, which was held behind the closed doors for safety reasons as the city officials have raised the tropical cyclone warning, guaranteed Japan a chance to reach the Final Six, though winning in less than fives sets was a better option for the Asian side.
Now, Japan have 6-3 and 13 points and hope Brazil or The Netherlands to lose their games to Belgium and USA, respectively, to secure a spot in the Final Tournament. If they both win, they will go to the Final Six and Japan will return home.
Sarina Koga topped Japan with 17 points while Irina Voronkova had 21 for Russia.
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