Match Preview
Japan are enjoying one of the strongest Volleyball Nations League campaigns in history, entering the final round with a perfect 11-0 record. Argentina are out of playoff contention and have already secured their place in next season's competition by avoiding relegation.
Japan Chasing a Perfect Group Stage
Japan’s performances and results have been outstanding this season, leaving the Samurai at the top of the Volleyball Nations League 2026 standings with an 11-0 record.
The Asian side won all four matches during Week 2 but dropped several sets against underdogs, defeating Serbia (3-1), Iran (3-2), the United States (3-2) and France (3-2).
Japan opened Week 3 with a remarkable comeback against Canada, recovering from two sets down to win 3-2 before cruising past Belgium 3-0 yesterday.
Argentina Could Lack Motivation
Argentina dropped out of the Nations League 2026 playoff race some time ago but are at least safe from relegation, entering the final round in 14th place with a 3-8 record.
Two of those victories came during Week 2, when the Argentinians defeated Germany 3-2 before producing an impressive straight-sets victory over China. They were unable to build on that momentum, however, losing a five-set thriller to Turkey before wrapping up June with a 3-1 defeat to Poland despite winning the opening set 50-48.
The South Americans began Week 3 by recovering from two sets down to beat Canada 3-2 and end their losing run, but have since suffered back-to-back defeats, losing 3-2 to Cuba before falling 3-0 to Italy yesterday.