Netherlands – Japan
After four matches, the Dutch are second place in pool C, trailing three points behind current pool leader Canada, that managed to beat South Korea twice last weekend. But the Canadians played two more matches, just like former pool leader Finland, in which they surprisingly lost against Japan twice last weekend. This means that the Netherlands can possibly lead the pool if they manage to beat Portugal in Apeldoorn this weekend. The Portuguese, who have played only four matches to now, are provisionally ranked last in pool C.
After the upcoming round, the Netherlands will leave for South Korea and Finland for their last two pool rounds, whereas the Portuguese still have their four home matches against Japan and Korea to look forward to.
Only the pool winner will qualify for the Final Round of the 2013 World League, which will take place from 16 to 21 July in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Coach Benn said, “It is quite a challenge to win our pool, but it is certainly not mission impossible. With the qualification last year in Rotterdam, we got a lot of support from our fans. We hope we will see a big orange crowd again coming weekend in Omnisport Apeldoorn. That should be possible in the city where two of the three biggest Dutch volleyball clubs are settled!”
To the delight of the Dutch audience, Benne’s squad only lost one set in their first two home matches against Japan. “Apeldoorn and the region are known for their major volleyball tradition,” stated the Dutch coach. “I hope to see a lot of cheering fans from Apeldoorn and the rest of our country at the match taking place this weekend again.”
Aside from the volleyball matches, spectators will be treated to a range of side events in what promises to be a true volleyball experience.
To read more news from this competition click on World League 2013 M.
