On the fifth day of the second week of the Volleyball Nations League, France played against Canada, winning 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-21). After the match, we asked French libero Zhenya Grebennikov for a comment.
-How was today's game?
Grebennikov: It was good but difficult because the venue was very noisy (laughs). But it's okay, it was the same for Canada. It was difficult, but we had good side-outs. The team is getting better every day, but it's difficult to get back in shape after a break.
- Tomorrow we have a match against Brazil. It looks like it's going to be another difficult match.
Grebennikov: It will be a good challenge. It will also help us to see what level we are at. Every match against Brazil is a big fight, so I think it will be an interesting match for the fans and everyone involved in volleyball. We will do our best. Even if we are not 100% prepared, we will do our best for our families.
-You've been playing in St. Petersburg, Russia this season. What do you think of the current situation in the Russian league?
Grebennikov: Everything is fine. But we can't play in the European Champions League. That bothers me because I like playing in the Champions League. But we didn't even meet the traditional conditions for participating in the Champions League, so we wouldn't have been able to participate anyway. Personally, I don't see much change (because of the war). I would also like to win some titles in Russia, but the Russian league is very high level, so that's difficult.
-What do you think about this year's Japanese national team?
Grebennikov: It's very good. They play as a team, they enjoy playing together, and they are very technical. I think Philippe Blanc is doing a really great job with them. It's not just yesterday, they've been together for over six years and have built up a lot. They're at a very high level, and part of the reason for that is the level of the Japanese league. And now they're playing against the best teams in the world and winning. I think it's amazing for them, but it's only in the VNL. They need to grow even more in bigger tournaments. But I think this is a big step for them. Now everyone is paying attention to Japan and they're showing great volleyball.
-What do you think about Japanese liberos?
Grebennikov: Very good. His defense is just crazy, he's always smiling, always enjoying the game, he never gives up the ball, he's always trying to help the team. He's playing very well. He's one of the best liberos in the world.
- Better than you? (laughs)
Grebennikov: That's difficult (laughs). It's hard to judge, but he is definitely one of the best liberos.
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