FUKUOKA – Host Japan picked up its first win at the men’s World Cup on Sunday, defeating African champion Egypt after five straight losses.
Japan dropped the opening set 29-27 but took the next three 25-17, 25-23, 25-12 at Marine Messe Fukuoka, leaving both teams at 1-5 in a competition that doubles as a qualifier for next year’s London Olympic volleyball tournament.
In other matches, Poland defeated winless China 17-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-19 to stay atop the standings with a 5-1 record.
Defending champion Brazil and Russia also earned their fifth wins in six matches. Brazil beat Argentina (3-3) 25-22, 25-20, 25-21, while Russia clobbered Serbia (1-5) 25-16, 25-16, 25-15.
The top three finishers of the 12-team, round-robin tournament will secure berths in the London Olympics.