Japan women's volleyball team wins opening match at Asian Championship

The Japan women's national volleyball team began its campaign at the Asian Volleyball Championship in Tianjin, China, with a victory over Hong Kong. The tournament serves as a direct qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with the championship winner earning a spot.

Japan dominated the first set with a 25-9 score. In the second set, the team faced a mid-game struggle after Hong Kong scored three consecutive points, disrupting Japan's reception. The momentum shifted following a double substitution that brought in 35-year-old setter Erika Sakae and 20-year-old player Misora Akimoto. Sakae's tactical setting helped stabilize the offense, allowing Japan to secure the second set 25-15.

Captain Mayu Ishikawa, who recently showed strong performance in the Nations League, remains central to the team's strategy. Japan is currently ranked 6th in the world and aims to secure the title to avoid a more difficult qualification process through world rankings or the 2027 World Cup.