Brazil's Ana Cristina spikes the ball during the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Women's Nations League match between Brazil and Canada at the Maracanazinho gymnasium in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil won in four sets on May 14, 2024.MAURO PIMENTEL/Getty Images
Canada opened Volleyball Nations League play on Tuesday night with a four-set loss to host Brazil.
The Canadian women dropped the opening set 26-24, won the second 25-23, then lost the next two 26-24 and 25-12.
With the women’s team still in contention to qualify for Paris 2024, Canadian coach Shannon Winzer stressed the importance of VNL in the big picture.
“This year’s VNL has the additional importance of achieving our goal of qualifying for Paris 2024,” said Winzer.
“Earning a spot in the Olympic tournament requires the time, effort and commitment of more than just the 14 athletes selected to (our) roster, it’s the effort of the athletes and staff of the program as whole.”
On Tuesday, Canada led in attacks 55-53, and made less unforced errors (20-27), but Brazil dominated on the blocks (15-5).
Alexa Gray of Calgary led Canada in scoring with 23 points, while teammate Kiera Van Ryk of Surrey, B.C., had 18 points.
Canada’s next match is Thursday against the Dominican Republic.