Toshiki: How do you feel looking back on today's game?
Yamamoto: I think the reason we won today was because we scored points when the opponent's server sent strong serves to the receivers, and we made more C passes, and we got rebounds from high balls, and we were able to launch attacks more often than our opponents. Of course, we still have some issues to work on, so we'd like to overcome those and win again tomorrow.
Toshiki: What were your specific defensive aims and strategies today?
Yamamoto: As expected, the key was the number one opposite player (Stern), so we discussed in the meeting how to contain him, but Slovenia's number one player has a high success rate against any opponent, so I think it was good that we were able to accept it to a certain extent, and just pass when we needed to and block when we needed to.
Toshiki: The third set must have been a tough one as your opponent took the match to deuce after you had a big lead. What did you keep in mind when playing in those situations?
Yamamoto: I thought that reception and side-outs were going to be very important, so I just focused on returning the receptions properly. I also tried to be resigned to the fact that I would get hit hard, and made sure to pick up the tips and soft hits.
Toshiki: Our opponent in tomorrow's final will be France, who I think are a team with excellent defence, just like Japan.
Yamamoto: Yes, we are both teams that pick up the ball and our volleyball styles are similar, so we need to attack with our serves and first get the side outs, which are our strength. I think it will be a very tough game, but I'm looking forward to enjoying it as it is such a great stage.
Toshiki: I'm also looking forward to the showdown between the world's best libero, Grebennikov, from France!
Yamamoto: I definitely want to win (laughs).
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