The U.S. Women’s National Team delivered a statement victory during Week 2 of the 2026 Volleyball Nations League, securing a commanding 3-0 sweep (27-25, 25-20, 25-16) over Italy at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, Philippines. 

The opening frame was a tense back-and-forth battle where Italy, led by captain Carlotta Cambi, even held a late set point at 24-23 after a clutch Loveth Omoruyi block. However, the Americans kept their composure, propelled by Stephany Samedy's six early points, to steal the grueling set 27-25.

Losing that opening set disrupted Italy's rhythm, allowing the United States to dominate the rest of the match. 
In the second set, American middle blocker Molly McCage anchored a smothering net defense that held the Italians to zero blocks, helping the U.S. comfortably pull away for a 25-20 win. 
The third set turned into a masterclass in efficiency as Team USA rushed to a quick 6-1 lead and closed out the match 25-16.
Stephany Samedy finished as the top American scorer with 12 points, supported by Madison Banks who contributed 11 points and steady backcourt defense alongside libero Morgan Hentz. 
While Italian rookie Merit Adigwe fought hard to log a match-high 13 points, she was the only Italian player to reach double digits. 
This decisive victory snapped Italy's four-match VNL winning streak against the U.S. and propelled the Americans to an impressive 6-1 overall tournament record.
Photos: Volleyball World