After suffering losses in each of their first group matches, in straight sets to Canada and in four sets to Italy, the United States men’s volleyball team entered Thursday in dire need of a victory if they’re to have a shot at reaching the medal rounds. But faced with the task of playing hosts Brazil in front of a raucous crows at the Maracanãzinho, getting a win was not going to be easy for John Speraw’s team.
But the Americans rose to the occasion, beating Brazil in four sets, 25-20, 25-23, 20-25, 25-20. As a result of the win the Americans are now tied for fourth place in Group A with Canada on three points, with the two four teams in each group advancing to the quarterfinal round.