Canada eyes a perfect run in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg with just one game left in their schedule.
Canada is now 3-0 in the 2024 VNL Manila leg and remains the only team yet to be beaten in the Philippines.
Canada, initially ranked ninth with a 4-4 record, has made a remarkable climb in the standings.
Their convincing victories over Japan, Germany, and Brazil have propelled them into the Top 4, putting them in a strong position to secure a spot in the VNL Finals.
A huge part of their success has been outside hitter Eric Loeppky, who poured in 21 points in Canada’s straight-set win over Brazil.
"Obviously, huge win. Lots of emotions. Super super pumped about that game, especially [since] I feel like it was a team win,” Loeppky told reporters after the match.
“We won together, and I think that's why we won, so yeah, [we'll] just focus on the next game and then try to book our ticket to the Final 8,” he added.
While many are surprised with how Canada has performed so far, Loeppky explained that their success in Manila has been a build-up of their preparations and learnings since the start of the tournament.
"If you guys have been following on, we’ve been getting better from Week 1. So, I think really coming together for us this week, and I think we wanna just keep on improving and getting better,” the 25-year-old spiker said.
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Loeppky also made sure to thank the Filipino volleyball supporters who came out to support Canada in their match.
"I was really surprised of how many people came out for a 3 o'clock match on a Friday, so yeah, really grateful. You guys have been all amazing and keep it up,” Loeppky ended.
[ALSO READ: VNL: Canada coach Tuomas Sammelvuo enjoys loud atmosphere from Filipino fans in Manila Leg opener versus Japan]
Canada will look to end their Manila Leg campaign on a perfect note as they face the Netherlands tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.