Pool G of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship features Asian powerhouse Japan, perennial contender Canada, rising European side Turkiye, and returning underdogs Libya at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
This quartet will battle in a single round-robin for two tickets to the knockout stage in front of passionate Filipino fans.
Ranked among the world’s top teams, Japan enters as the favorite. But Canada’s seasoned squad and an improving Turkish team should make things interesting. Libya, back on this stage for the first time in over four decades, will relish the chance to test itself against high-caliber competition.
Here’s a closer look at the four teams in Pool G ahead of the group stage clashes.
Japan
World Ranking: #5
Japan has steadily climbed into volleyball’s elite, winning the 2023 Asian Championship title and reaching back-to-back Olympic quarterfinals.
With their dynamic offense and fast-paced style, the Japanese are aiming for a deep run. This proud program has a rich history and is hungry to return to the World Championship podium.
Key players to watch:
Ran Takahashi – A global fan favorite and electric outside hitter. Takahashi brings athleticism, speed, and all-around skills, making him one of Japan’s most reliable scorers and floor defenders.
Yuki Ishikawa – Team captain and a versatile outside hitter who anchors Japan’s all-around game, Ishikawa provides leadership, steady serve reception, and clutch scoring on the wings.
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Canada
World Ranking: #11
Canada brings a blend of veteran experience and new leadership heading into Pool G. The team qualified by taking silver at the 2023 NORCECA Continental Championship and also earned a berth to the Paris 2024 Olympics under former coach Tuomas Sammelvuo.
Now guided by new head coach Dan Lewis, the Canadians will look to leverage their consistency on the world stage. Canada is making its 8th World Championship appearance and will aim to reach the Round of 16 after narrowly missing out in 2022.
Key players to watch:
Xander Ketrzynski – A rising star for the national team, Ketrzynski brings powerful hitting from the opposite position and has international club experience with AS Cannes, making him a key offensive weapon for Canada.
Fynn McCarthy – A powerful middle blocker who played a major role in Canada’s VNL and Olympic runs. McCarthy continues to be a strong net presence, providing reliable defense and fast attacking transitions.
Turkiye
World Ranking: #17
Turkiye’s men’s team is an emerging program on the rise after securing their World Championship spot via the FIVB world rankings, after just missing direct qualification at the 2023 European Championship.
In 2024, the Turks made their debut in the elite Volleyball Nations League, gaining valuable experience despite finishing 16th in that campaign.
This will be Turkiye’s 6th World Championship appearance, and the squad will be eager to spring an upset or two in Pool G.
Key players to watch:
Adis Lagumdzija – A towering young opposite hitter and Türkiye’s primary scoring threat, Lagumdzija is renowned for his heavy hitting in top European leagues and has quickly become the focal point of the Turkish attack.
Arslan Eksi – The veteran setter and long-time team captain provides leadership and playmaking savvy, which will help stabilize Turkiye’s play, especially during crucial situations.
Libya
World Ranking: #44
Libya enters Pool G as the clear underdogs but also one of the tournament’s feel-good stories.
The North African team earned its spot by claiming a surprise bronze medal at the 2023 African Championship—the country’s first continental podium since 1979.
This achievement secured Libya’s return to the World Championship for the first time since 1982. Largely an unknown quantity on the world stage, Libya will focus on gaining experience and playing spoiler as it faces far more established volleyball powers.
Key players to watch:
Ahmed Ikhbayri – A powerful opposite hitter and Libya’s top attacking weapon. Ikhbayri, who currently plays in Italy, brings high-level experience and will be counted on to carry the scoring load for Libya.
Anas Alwaddani – A notable middle blocker who provides size and defense at the net. Alwaddani starred for Libyan club Al Swehly during their 2025 African Club Championship triumph, earning a spot on the tournament’s Dream Team.
Pool G Match Schedule (Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City):
September 13 (Saturday), 10:30 a.m. – Canada vs. Libya
September 13 (Saturday), 2:00 p.m. – Japan vs. Turkiye
September 15 (Monday), 10:30 a.m. – Turkiye vs. Libya
September 15 (Monday), 2:00 p.m. – Japan vs. Canada
September 17 (Wednesday), 2:00 p.m. – Canada vs. Turkiye
September 17 (Wednesday), 9:30 p.m. – Japan vs. Libya
Only the top two teams from Pool G will advance to the Round of 16, making every match crucial in the battle for a knockout stage berth.
Expect an intense fight in Pool G as these teams leave it all on the court with elimination on the line.
Tickets for the FIVB World Championship are available via www.philippineswch2025.com
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.