What Drives the Dragon? Japan Takes Aim at the VNL Top

Takahashi Ran, at left, knocks in a spinning spike for one of his points against Canada on July 16, 2026, in Osaka. (© Sankei Shimbun/Taidō Kōji)

Japan’s players celebrate after scoring against powerhouse Italy in Osaka on July 15, 2026. Setter Fukatsu Hideomi is at far right. (© Sankei Shimbun/Taidō Kōji)