Italy produced a remarkable comeback from two sets down to defeat Canada 3-2, recording a ninth victory in the 2026 Women’s Volleyball Nations League.
With a place in the VNL Finals already secured, Julio Velasco’s squad showed impressive determination to overturn an early deficit against Giovanni Guidetti’s Canada, prevailing 22-25, 27-29, 25-23, 25-23, 15-5.
Canada looked in control after claiming the opening two sets, powered by the outstanding Kiera Van Ryk. Italy, however, responded with greater aggression and consistency, led by an inspired Ekaterina Antropova, whose powerful attacking and serving sparked the turnaround. Sarah Fahr, Anna Danesi and Myriam Sylla also delivered important plays as the Italians forced a decisive fifth set.
Italy dominated the tie-break from the outset, overwhelming Canada with its blocking and attack to wrap up an emphatic 15-5 victory.
Antropova finished with a match-high 37 points, while Fahr added 14 and Danesi 10. Van Ryk led Canada with 27 points, supported by Thokbuom’s 17.
Result: Italy def. Canada 3-2 (22-25, 27-29, 25-23, 25-23, 15-5).
