The U.S. Olympic Women’s Indoor Volleyball Team is ready to kick off their quest for gold at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Their first match is against Puerto Rico, a familiar opponent from the NORCECA zone, on Saturday at 4:05 p.m. ET.
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With the world’s number-one ranking, the U.S. team entered the 2012 Olympic Games as favorites but settled for silver after losing to Brazil in the final. This year, they are determined to change that and stand atop the Olympic podium for the first time in 52 years since volleyball was included in the Olympic schedule.
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Despite their previous Olympic success of three silver medals (1984, 2008, and 2012) and one bronze (1992), the U.S. team has yet to clinch the coveted gold. However, they proved their mettle by winning the 2014 FIVB World Championship title in Italy.
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In Pool B, the Americans will face Puerto Rico, ranked 17th in the world, as well as Netherlands, Serbia, Italy, and China. Head Coach Karch Kiraly sees the strength of their group as an opportunity for intense competition and preparation, expressing the team’s excitement for the upcoming matches.
Although the U.S. team may appear less experienced on paper with eight newcomers, they have been battle-tested in international tournaments like the World Grand Prix, World Championship, and World Cup. They have a mix of Olympic veterans and rising stars, which Kiraly believes creates a compelling blend of talent and experience.
On the other hand, Puerto Rico has already made history by qualifying for their first Olympic Games. Winning the FIVB World Olympic Qualification Tournament, which they hosted, granted them the opportunity to compete on the Olympic stage. Head Coach Juan Carlos Nunez acknowledges the challenge ahead and the tough matches that await his team.
The U.S. and Puerto Rico have faced each other numerous times over the years, with the U.S. emerging victorious in 36 out of 39 encounters. The Americans won against Puerto Rico in four sets during the 2016 NORCECA Women’s Olympic Qualification Tournament, but Puerto Rico secured a four-set win against a primarily collegiate U.S. roster during the recent Pan American Cup semifinals.
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The U.S. team enters the Olympic Games fresh off a silver medal at the 2016 FIVB World Grand Prix, where they lost a thrilling five-set match to Brazil in the final. Puerto Rico also had a strong showing, finishing with a silver medal at the Pan American Cup.
With the top four teams from each pool advancing to the knockout stage, the U.S. team has their sights set on progressing and ultimately competing for the gold medal. The semifinals will take place on August 18th, followed by the medal matches on August 20th.
FAQs
1. Is this the first time Puerto Rico has qualified for the Olympic Games?
Yes, Puerto Rico has made history by qualifying for their first Olympic Games.
2. How many times has the U.S. team won an Olympic gold medal?
The U.S. team has yet to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. However, they claimed the gold at the 2014 FIVB World Championship.
3. Who are the key players to watch on the U.S. team?
Keep an eye on Olympic veterans such as Foluke Akinradewo, Christa Dietzen, Jordan Larson, and Courtney Thompson. These experienced players bring leadership and skill to the team.
Conclusion
The U.S. Olympic Women’s Volleyball Team is ready to embark on their Olympic journey. With a blend of talent, experience, and determination, they aim to make history and secure the gold medal. The opening match against Puerto Rico will set the tone for their campaign, and fans can expect fierce battles and exciting volleyball throughout the tournament. Stay tuned to witness the U.S. team’s pursuit of Olympic glory.
For more information about the U.S. Olympic Women’s Volleyball Team, visit Alpinetgheep.
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Danh mục: Volleyball
