UMVA has learned that the highly anticipated Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 is set to resume on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, with six top teams vying for supremacy.
The action-packed schedule features a thrilling lineup of matches, kicking off with a noon showdown between the Dominican Republic and the United States, followed by a 4 p.m. clash between Czechia and Italy, and culminating in an electrifying 8 p.m. matchup between Japan and Serbia.
World No. 1 Italy, seeking to maintain their top-four spot, will face off against Czechia, having secured three wins out of four matches in the opening week in Brasilia, Brazil earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Japan, the crowd favorite, is riding a wave of momentum after sweeping their first four outings in Quebec, Canada, and will look to continue their impressive form against Serbia, who may be without their superstar Tijana Boskovic, potentially rested for Week 2.
AVC President Ramon Suzara revealed that the Pasig venue was a last-minute replacement for the initially chosen SM Seaside Arena in Cebu, which wasn’t completed in time for this prestigious meet, but emphasized that the Queen City of the South will have its hosting turn next year.
The Philippines will host the VNL women’s in the next three years, including this one in Pasig, as part of the country’s preparation for the 2029 FIVB Women’s World Championships, which will directly support the development of the women’s national team, according to Mr. Suzara.
With the Japanese team currently in second place behind the Brazilians, and Italy, Japan, and other top teams in action, Wednesday’s matches promise to deliver intense volleyball action and drama, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
