Karina Barbosa De Souza of Brazil spikes against Japan
Callao, Peru, August 8, 2015 - Brazil made a successful debut in Pool D action in the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U18 World Championship by beating Japan 3-0 (25-19, 33-21, 28-26) at the Miguel Grau Coliseum in Callao on Saturday.
The South American squad dominated their opponents in attacks (49-39), blocks (11-5) but Japan controlled the aces (10-0) Nyeme Alexander led the Brazilian attack with 16 points. Japanese Ai Kurogo was the top scorer of the match with 23 points Brazil began with many problems in receptions but their strong spikes were enough to surpass the intense defence of Japan and they won the first set 25-19.
Despite this preliminary result the happiness of the Japanese players connected with local fans and they supported the Asian team during the entire game. An intense battle between the powerful of Brazilian spiker Nyeme Alexander and ability of Japanese libero, Kanoha Kagamihara made an spectacular and thriller ending of the set to brazil 33-31.
Japan begun the third set leading 4-0 thanks continues serving aces, however the Brazilian’s offensive play proved too much for the Japanese courage and they closed another dramatic set by 28-26.