July 06, 2024

VNL: Canada stuns slumping Brazil with emphatic straight-set victory in Manila leg

VNL: Canada stuns slumping Brazil with emphatic straight-set victory in Manila leg
Canada is the only undefeated team so far in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg after the latest victory against powerhouse Brazil. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports

Canada remains the only undefeated team in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg after the stunning straight-set victory over Brazil, 26-24, 25-19, 26-24, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Friday, June 21.

The world no. 9 continued its impressive run so far in Manila after grabbing its third-straight win, led by outside hitter Eric Loeppky, who finished with 21 points on 16 attacks, two blocks, and three service aces.

Tied at 16-all in the third set, middle blocker Danny Demyanenko gave the Canadians the lead before Brodie Hofer’s back-to-back service aces pushed their advantage to three.

Brazil, however, would fight their way back to tie the game behind Yoandy Leal Hidalgo’s three-straight attacks.

Loeppky would send Canada to match point, but Flavio Gualberto would force another extended set after his emphatic attack from the middle.

Alan Souza, however, committed a service error, which Canada pounced on, as Stephen Maar sealed the win with an off-the-block hit, which Brazil failed to save.

Maar and Arthur Szwarc contributed 11 points apiece in the win, which improved Canada’s record to fourth in the standings with a 7-4 record.

Darla Souza led Brazil with 12 points on 10 attacks and two service aces.

Canada will close its Manila leg on Saturday, June 22, with a match against the Netherlands.