Japan women's volleyball team aims for Asian title after Nations League loss

Japan's women's volleyball team returned to the country on 24 July after a 1 – 3 defeat to Brazil in the Nations League quarter‑finals. Captain Mayu Ishikawa said the squad lacked aggression and precision, while outside hitter Yuki Wada noted the lower accuracy that cost them the match.

The team now turns its focus to the Asian Championships, scheduled to begin on 21 August in Tianjin, China. Winning the tournament will secure a berth for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Coach Akihiro Akiba, in his second year, emphasised the need to improve block defence and serve levels to compete against taller teams like China.

Both players and staff plan to use lessons from the Nations League to sharpen their play and communication ahead of the upcoming Asian showdown.