United States and Canada Close Week 1 with Victories

June 15, 2025. – The United States and Canada wrapped up the first week of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with victories. The U.S. defeated Cuba, while Canada swept Bulgaria.

USA Survives Four-Set Battle Against Cuba in Rio

In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, the U.S. Men’s National Team secured a hard-fought 3-1 win (25-22, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23) over Cuba at the iconic Maracanãzinho stadium, claiming a crucial victory on the final day of Week 1 of the VNL.

Led by head coach Karch Kiraly, the Americans showed grit and composure to come back in several tough moments. Outside hitter Cooper Robinson led the team with 18 points (12 attacks, 4 blocks, 2 aces), playing a decisive role in the final two sets.

Middle blocker Jeff Jendryk also stood out with 13 points through strong performances both in attack and blocking, while outside hitter Taylor Champlin contributed 11 points.

After a shaky start, USA adjusted its system and capitalized on Cuba’s mistakes to take a 2-0 lead. Although the Caribbean squad bounced back in the third set, the Americans imposed their game in the fourth to seal the win with poise.

This result marks a step forward for Kiraly’s project with the men’s team, highlighting their ability to respond and perform under pressure. The United States now moves forward in Pool 2 with a valuable victory that strengthens their campaign in the 2025 VNL.

The U.S. finishes Week 1 with 2 wins and 2 losses, currently in 11th place, while Cuba ends with 1 win and 3 losses, ranked 15th.

Canada Ends Week on a High Note with Sweep Over Bulgaria

Backed by 7,984 fans at the Centre Vidéotron, Canada earned a commanding 3-0 victory (26-24, 25-23, 25-19) over Bulgaria in their final match of Week 1 of the 2025 Men’s VNL.

The match lasted 1 hour and 36 minutes and showcased the Canadian team’s maturity and power, especially in crucial moments.

Head coach Daniel Lewis’s squad displayed consistency across all areas of the game. Outside hitter Eric Loeppky Hofer was the star of the night, leading the offense with 21 points, including powerful spikes and decisive aces. Opposite Ryan Sclater also played a key role with 12 points, showing precision in both attacking and serving.

Canada especially excelled in blocking (scoring 11 points in that category) and serving, while taking advantage of 24 unforced errors by Bulgaria. The Bulgarian team, after a competitive first set, was unable to maintain their level.

With this result, Canada closes the first week of the VNL with a 2-2 record, placing them in sixth place.

Women’s VNL Week 2 Begins June 18

Week 2 of the Women’s VNL begins Wednesday, June 18, across various locations. Canada and the Dominican Republic will head to Istanbul, Türkiye. Canada opens against Korea at 12:30 p.m. local time, while the Dominican Republic takes on the home team at 7:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Women’s National Team will travel to Belgrade, Serbia, where they’ll open against the host team at 8:00 p.m. local time.