On the first day of the second week of the Volleyball Nations League, Brazil played against Bulgaria, with Brazil winning 3-0 (25-22, 25-17, 25-15). After the match, we asked OH Ricardo Lucarelli, a Brazilian player, to make a comment.
-How was the match?
Lucarelli: In the first set, we didn't have any chances with our serve and block, and Bulgaria was able to get side-outs easily. But in the second and third sets, our serve and block improved, and we were able to make it a bit harder for them in side-out situations. On the other hand, we were able to get side-outs very well, so we were able to play with a good rhythm in the second and third sets.
-Your performance is always at a high and stable level both offensively and defensively, but how do you maintain that level?
Lucarelli: I consider myself a very focused person. Even after a great match, I switch my mindset and go to practice for the next match. I'm never satisfied. I never think, "Today was good, so I won't practice tomorrow." So I think the key is to keep practicing and stay focused. I know it's impossible to perform well in every match, but I always try to do that.
-What do you think are the strengths of the Brazilian national team?
Lucarelli: At the moment, our serve and block are working very well, and of course our counterattacks are good too. We basically play patiently, and sometimes we get aggressive, which I think is a good thing. Our receive was very good in today's match. In a match like this, a good serve receive can make all the difference. I think these are the areas where we are working very well right now.
-The match against Japan is coming up on Thursday. You played for Piacenza in Italy this season and were undefeated against Milan, where Yuki Ishikawa plays, so I'm sure you have nothing to be scared of...
Lucarelli: That's not true. I've played against Yuuki many times, but this time we have not only Yuuki, but also Takahashi (Ai), who is playing very well now, and Nishida, who is getting back in shape after a difficult season in Japan. I know Nishida had some problems. Yes, they are a very good team. Their setter is amazing, and their libero is crazy. Their middle blockers are getting better every year. I think Japan is the team that can play the most beautiful and precise game at the moment. So the match against them will be very tough.
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Photo: FIVB
Photo book "CATCH ××× DREAM" featuring Ryujin Nippon's three players Ishikawa, Takahashi, and Nishida will be released on June 5th! ↓
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