Erik Shoji would have wanted to give Filipino fans a victory in their debut match in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg.
It wasn’t the debut that Team USA had hoped for in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg.
Coming in as the favorites, the 6th-ranked Americans were stunned by the 15th-ranked Iranians, falling in five sets, 28-26, 23-25, 18-25, 28-26, 13-15, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday, June 19.
USA’s libero Erik Shoji couldn’t help but regret their loss against Iran, wanting to win their opening match in Manila.
“I think we were up and down, of course. We wanted to win today and just be a little bit better and be a little more crisp with our game,” Shoji told reporters after the match.
“Iran played really well. They always play well against us. It was unfortunate in the end to lose that one,” he added.
Despite their loss, Shoji made sure to thank Filipino volleyball fans who came to watch the United States.
“We love them. It’s a late night, we have to play them tomorrow, so they’re awesome. Salamat to all the Filipino fans. We’ll see them soon,” said Shoji.
“We know that Filipino fans love volleyball, so we thank them so much for coming and cheering. I’m from Honolulu so it’s cool to be here, and it’s been an awesome experience so far,” he added.
Since arriving in the country last June 15, Shoji said that Filipinos have been nothing but accommodating to the entire team, making their stay extra special.
“They’re taking really good care of us and people are so nice, so accommodating. They’re the nicest people in the world, I think,” said Shoji.
“We’re really happy to be here for the first time. I think it’s almost everyone’s first experience here, and so far, it’s going good except for that match,” he added.
Shoji and the rest of the Americans will look to bounce back tomorrow when they face Brazil at 7:00 p.m.
“We have a fast turnaround tomorrow against Brazil. We have to learn from this one, move forward and it’s always a good one against Brazil,” Shoji ended.