Urmia, Iran, August 26, 2023 – Fired-up Japan captured the Asian title after overpowering hosts Iran in thrilling straight sets 25-20, 25-18, 25-18 in the final showdown of the 22nd Asian Senior Men’s Volleyball Championship at the packed Al-Ghadir Hall 1 on Saturday.
Splendid teamwork, offensive combinations and determination had been regarded as key points of Japan for the Saturday’s exceptional victory against the host side.
Against the dominant Iran, Japan fielded a formidable lineup of a highly-experienced squad including four veterans – Yuji Nishida, Masahiro Sekita, Yuki Shikawa, and Tomohiro Yamamoto.
Japan got off to a solid start in the first set, which they performed superbly to seal the hard-fought set 25-20 against the Iranian outfit. In the second set, both teams capitalized on their power and speed at the net, but the strong visitors, with more experienced players, remained in superb form up to their standard to foil the rivals’ fightback attempts. Japan took the hotly-contested second set 25-18 to stretch the lead to 2-0.
Hoping for a comeback, the young Iranians showcased their hidden talents and skills beyond their age in the third set. Japan kept the margin wide, flexed their muscles and stormed on their fantastic combination plays to leave the Iranians behind 20-14.
Despite attempting to stage a strong fightback, Iran found Japan uncatchable as they came up with ebullient power and concentration in a surprising degree. Japan clinched the third set 25-18, match and the championship.
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