Japan Men’s Volleyball Extends Winning Streak to 10-0 After Stunning Comeback vs Canada

Japan’s men’s volleyball team defeated Canada 3-2 (18-25, 24-26, 29-27, 25-19, 15-11) on July 16 in Osaka, extending their unbeaten run to 10 consecutive wins at the 2026 Volleyball Nations League. Ranked fourth globally, Japan rallied from losing the first two sets to claim victory in a grueling five-set battle. The win marks their sixth five-set victory this tournament and secures their spot in the finals.

How Japan Mounted the Comeback

Canada’s 199.8-centimeter average height gave Japan early trouble. The visitors won the first set 25-18 and led 24-22 in the second before Japan equalized. Canada took the second set 26-24, leaving Japan facing elimination. In the third set, Japan trailed before Tatsunori Otsuka’s powerful attacks and solid defense from Kono turned the match. Japan won 29-27 after a seesaw battle, cutting Canada’s lead to 1-2 in sets.

Otsuka Leads Japan’s Bench Rotation

Otsuka scored 18 points, the match high, despite starting on the bench. Coach Roland Tilli rotated players constantly to counter Canada’s height advantage. Miyaura Kento added 15 points and Tomita Masuma 14. Otsuka said after the match: “All players and staff, including those on the bench, fought without giving up. That’s why we won.” Japan won the fourth set 25-19 and the decisive fifth 15-11.

Japan’s Five-Set Mastery

Six of Japan’s 10 victories have come in five-set matches, including five consecutive tiebreaks. Japan won all six five-set matches in this tournament. In contrast, Canada has lost seven five-set matches, including four straight, and now faces relegation danger. Japan’s ability to stay composed under pressure separates them from rivals.

Road to the Finals

Japan qualified for the finals after defeating Italy on July 15, finishing the preliminary round in fifth place or higher. They face Belgium on July 17 at 7:20 p.m. Japan time and Argentina on July 19. The top eight teams, including hosts China, advance to quarterfinals in Ningbo from July 29 to August 2.

Final Thoughts

Japan’s 10-0 record and mastery of five-set matches position them as strong contenders for the Volleyball Nations League title. With their next match against Belgium on July 17, the team’s momentum and depth suggest they will remain a threat through the finals.

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