Japan earned another victory in the first round after their 3-0 win over Kenya in the FIVB Volleybal Women's World Cup at the Yoyogi National Stadium on Wednesday
Japanese captain Saori Kimura top scored for her squad, while Mercy Moim tallied 13 markers for Kenya. Japan outscored Kenya on offence with 39 spikes and 10 aces, and on defence with six blocks, 34 digs and 31 receptions.
Japan outsmarted Kenya using their quick and well-placed spikes to open the match with an 8-2 lead. The Japanese side also overwhelmed the African side with their excellent defence, which could not be penetrated by the Kenyan attack. Japan rallied to end the first set 25-15.
Japan likewise outplayed the African side in the second set with a 16-9 lead in the second technical timeout. Kenya had a brilliant run that helped them trail the hosts 24-20. Japan funnelled their final attack in the centre of the Kenyan court to end the set 25-20. Japan employed well-disciplined defence in the third set, limiting the Kenyans to work their way from the flanks. Japan commanded the set 25-12.