On the evening of June 12, two national teams achieved historical achievements – China and Poland – following wins at the closing of Week 1 in the 2022 FIVB Men’s Volleyball Nations League.
In the last game at home in Brasília for Week 1 of the 2022 Men’s VNL – Pool 1, Brazil failed to impose its rhythm and suffered a bitter setback from China, second in the tournament. Again in a crowded arena (10,000 spectators), the defending champions got swept by the Asian side, which came to the tournament instead of a disqualified Russia. Yes, you read it right! China achieved a surprising and unprecedented result – it was its first-ever win over Brazil in official FIVB competitions! Furthermore, it was China’s first win in this year’s edition of VNL, following 3 defeats. As a result, Brazil lost its rule over the FIVB World Ranking. Zhang Jingyin top-scored China with 25 points.
Poland made a historic achievement – they are at the top of the World Rankings. After the victory over the Olympic champions France 3-1, the ‘red and whites’ are world’s No.1 for the first time in history, taking advantage of Brazil’s shocking defeat to China. Given the fact they went to the first week of the VNL in Ottawa – Pool 2 – with a backup squad, the win against ‘Les Bleus’ in a big derby was an admirable result for the reigning world champions, and so is the record of 3-1. France is also at 3-1 as this was its first loss in the tournament. Karol Butryn was the most efficient player among the Poles today with 21 points.
2022 FIVB Men’s Volleyball Nations League – preliminary stage, Day 4, Week 1:
