France, Tokyo Games champion, sweeps Japan

World No. 3 France carved out a 25-22, 27-25, 25-16 win over Japan to remain unbeaten in the Quezon City leg of the Volleyball Nations League Saturday before 9,491 spectators at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Parading a different starting unit, the Japanese put up a gallant stand in the first two sets, but faded in the third, as the French, with their solid service and attacking game, pulled away at 17-9 and never looked back.

The Tokyo Olympics gold medalists improved to 6-1 heading into Sunday’s morning duel with Germany.  France has yet to yield a set in the Philippine swing.

Coming off a tough 25-20, 21-25, 24-26, 25-19, 15-13 win over European champions Italy Friday night, Japan, with a short recovery time, made major adjustments on its starting six.

With ace spikers Yuji Nishida and Yuki Ishikawa not starting and Ran Takahashi designated as libero, the Japanese second unit went toe-to-toe with the French, who also sat out star player Earvin Ngapeth, in the opening set before losing.

Pushed to a extended second set by Japan’s reserves, Barthelemy Chinenyeze delivered clutch kills to give France a 2-0 set lead.

“It was a very difficult fight today. I think we played amazing. Japan played amazing on defense so it was difficult to find solution on our attacks but in the end, we won 3-0 and we were able to take care of three points today,” said Trevor Clevenot, who had 10 points, seven receptions and four digs.

Jean Patry had three blocks to finish with 14 points to go with six digs, while French libero Benjamin Diez collected 11 digs and six receptions.

Everything is going smoothly for France, which is also preparing for the World Championships in August.

“We are very good, we are winning. It is important for our confidence,” said Clevenot.

The Japanese, who were led by Otsuka Tatsunori’s 15 kills, suffered their second loss in seven matches.

The event has Mikasa, Ganten, Gerflor and Senoh as global sponsors and global suppliers, PLDT Home as presenting partner, Rebisco, MG Philippines, TOP Speed Insurance, Asics and Maynilad as official sponsors, Havas Ortega, The Look Company, Summit Outdoor Media, The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Marketing Media Ventures, Strong Media Advertising Solutions. 91.5 Win Radio, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, City of Taguig, Quezon City and F2 Logistics as official suppliers.