Japan delivered a stunning performance in the Volleyball Nations League 2025 quarterfinals, toppling European powerhouse Türkiye in a dramatic five-set duel to earn a place in the semifinals.
The match, played at the Atlas Arena, kept fans on edge as both teams battled fiercely. In the end, Japan emerged victorious with a 3-2 scoreline (25-21, 16-21, 25-20, 22-25, 15-9), sealing their third-ever semifinal spot in VNL history.
Captain Mayu Ishikawa led Japan with 19 points and delivered the final blow with a service ace. She was well-supported by Yukiko Wada and Yoshino Sato, who added 15 points each. Their efforts helped Japan maintain composure through the tie-breaker and complete the upset over the reigning European champions.
“We’re proud of how we played,” said setter Nanami Seki. “We stayed focused and trusted our teamwork. Now we’re just one step away from another medal.”
Türkiye showed flashes of brilliance, especially through Melissa Vargas, who topped the scoring with 23 points. Yaprak Erkek (17 points) and middle blockers Zehra Güneş (12 points) and Aslı Kalaç (11 points) made strong contributions, but unforced errors and Japan’s relentless pace ultimately proved costly.
With this win, Japan will now face either Brazil or Germany in Saturday’s semifinal, aiming to better their silver-medal finish from 2024 and bring home gold for the first time.
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