EXCLUSIVE!
One Volleywood fan who watched last night’s match between Brazil and Japan in Nagoya shares what she saw after Brazil got eliminated from the FIVB World Championship. Despite winning in 5 sets, Brazil failed to advance since Japan has a better record to conclude to second round.
“After the match, Brazilian players stayed on the court and comforted each other. It was a very sad moment for everyone. Out of all the Brazilian players, Gabi was the most emotional and looked to be inconsolable. She could not stop crying while covering her face. Thaisa then approached her and gave her a hug. The rest of her teammates followed and tried to talk to her. They even tried to make her laugh but she was just really broken. I got teary eyed as well watching her. I am not a Brazilian fan but moments like this one would really touch you.”
Brazil’s homework the other night was to beat Japan in straight sets so they would advance to the Final 6. Brazil had a 5 point lead in set 1 but momentum changed and favored Japan to win the set by blocking Gabi at set point (23-25). After the opening set, Brazil still played with their best lineup despite knowing they’re already out of the tournament.
The fan also adds that veterans Thaisa, Tandara, Dani Lins and Fe Garay were also emotional knowing that it could be their last World Championship appearance with the national team.
At the post match press conference, Coach Jose Guimaraes praised Japan’s great performance and he also took time to acknowledge the sacrifices from his players.
“It was a tough match. We had to win in three sets. It was a difficult situation and a difficult challenge. The first set was close but we could not win. Our players did not give up. We gave our best effort. We learned many things here. Japan volleyball is important in the world and they played well. Our players sacrificed time with their families to be here and I am proud of them.”
This is Brazil’s worst performance at the World Championship since Coach ZRG became the head coach in 2003.
2006 – SILVER
2010 – SILVER
2014 – BRONZE
2018 – 7th
UPDATE: Gabi Shares A Touching Post On Instagram.
“Eliminação dolorosa nesse Mundial. Primeiro quero agradecer de coração às inúmeras mensagens de carinho e apoio. Não saímos com o resultado desejado, mas não deixo de sentir muito orgulho em fazer parte desse grupo maravilhoso, que não se entregou e lutou até o fim. A dor desse choro, da reflexão e do coração angustiado servirão de combustível para a busca dos próximos objetivos. Sairemos mais fortes de tudo isso e a melhor forma é seguirmos lutando. Desistir nunca foi uma opção e nunca será. Gratidão à todos.”
FIVB IMAGES
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