Brazil, currently leading the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), commenced the third and ultimate week of the tournament’s Preliminary Phase with a resounding victory over their long-standing continental rivals, Argentina. This pivotal win decisively secured their place in the tournament`s highly anticipated Finals.
In what was dubbed the “South American Derby,” kicking off the third week of matches at the Chiba Port Arena, the Brazilians demonstrated superior form. They clinched a decisive 3-1 victory over Argentina, with set scores of 25-21, 25-23, 24-26, and 25-18.
With this triumph, Brazil solidifies its commanding position at the top of the VNL 2025 standings, now boasting eight victories and a total of 23 points. Their qualification for the Finals, set to take place in Ningbo, China, from July 30 to August 3, is now officially confirmed.
Opposite hitter Alan Souza emerged as the match’s leading scorer, contributing an impressive 20 points, comprising 18 kills, one block, and one ace. Outside hitter Henrique Honorato also played a significant role in Brazil`s victory, adding 18 points from 17 kills and one ace.
Reflecting on the team`s performance, Honorato expressed his immense pride. “We played a solid game today,” he stated. “We knew it would be a challenging encounter against Argentina; they consistently present difficulties due to their formidable defensive system. We faced a slight hurdle towards the end of the third set, missing the opportunity for a straight-sets win. However, our strong comeback filled me with pride for our team.”
For Argentina, substitute opposite Pablo Kukatsev delivered a commendable performance from the bench, scoring a team-high 17 points, which included 16 kills and one block, helping his side stay competitive against the Brazilian powerhouse. Outside hitter Luciano Palonsky also registered 15 points, with 11 kills, three aces, and one block.
Following this match, Argentina temporarily holds a spot within the qualification zone, currently in seventh place with five wins and 13 points. Nevertheless, their position remains tenuous and could potentially drop to twelfth by the end of the day`s play.
Palonsky acknowledged Brazil`s strong play but maintained that his team also performed well. “We still have a considerable journey ahead,” he commented. “With three matches left, we need to secure at least two victories to keep our qualification prospects alive. We will regroup and focus on tomorrow’s games.”
The opening day of matches in Chiba will conclude with two additional fixtures: Türkiye is scheduled to face the United States at 15:30 local time (06:30 GMT), followed by hosts Japan competing against Germany at 19:20 (10:20 GMT).
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick