Russia's head coach Tuomas Sammelvuo (R, Back) speaks to his players during Volleyball Nations League match between Japan and Russia in Novi Sad, Serbia, on June 1, 2019. Russia won 3-1. (Xinhua/Predrag Milosavljevic)
BELGRADE, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Russia achieved their first victory in the FIVB Men's Volleyball Nations League on Saturday in Novi Sad, Serbia by beating Japan 25-22, 23-25, 25-19, 25-23.
From the beginning of the match, the Russians managed to tame excellent serves of their opponents, profited from their errors and blocked them on the net.
However, the Japanese team resisted with speed and creativity, managing to steal the second set and attempt a comeback.
However, the Russians' height advantage was apparent and they took back their lead at 2-1.
In the fourth set, Russians broke the deadlock at 22-22 after a fierce battle.
Russia will play their next game on Sunday against Serbia, while Japan will meet France.
Finals of the competition will take place this July in Chicago.
