The Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 has officially kicked off its highly anticipated Week 3! 
This marks the final and most decisive phase of the preliminary round, where teams are giving everything they have to secure a spot in the Finals in Macao or to fight desperately against relegation. 
All the thrilling action is unfolding simultaneously across three different host cities around the world.

Osaka, Japan
Türkiye secured a crucial victory in Pool 9 by defeating rival Poland 3-1 with set scores of 27-25, 20-25, 25-19, 25-19. While the team celebrated this major win to boost their Finals race, the triumph came with a heavy cost. 
Middle blocker Sinead Jack Kısal had to leave the court in the fourth set after suffering an apparent leg injury during a play. Before her exit, she contributed a stellar performance with 9 points, 5 kills, and 4 blocks.
Other action at the Asue Arena Osaka featured high-stakes clashes among heavyweights. The United States continued their winning streak by overcoming Thailand 3-0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-20).
The host nation Japan battled fiercely against South American powerhouse Brazil but ultimately fell 1-3 (20-25, 25-19, 19-25, 23-25).
Hong Kong, China
Over in Pool 8 at the Kai Tak Sports Arena, Canada edged out China 3-2 (19-25, 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 15-11) in a thrilling five-set encounter. 
Meanwhile, Germany powered past the Czech Republic with a 3-1 (22-25, 25-22, 25-21, 25-19) victory, while Italy dominated Ukraine in a convincing 3-1 (25-15, 23-25, 25-10, 25-21) performance to claim vital points for the knockout stage.
Belgrade, Serbia
Meanwhile, in Pool 7 at the Belgrade Arena, the home nation's squad capitalized on their court advantage to sweep Bulgaria 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 27-25) to stave off elimination. 
In the same pool, the Netherlands swept France with a clear 3-0 (25-22, 25-18, 25-23) victory as teams fought desperately to avoid finishing at the bottom of the standings.
Photos: Volleyball World