USA Completes Pool 5 Sweep with Four-Set Victory Over Serbia

Team USA wrapped up its Pool 5 campaign in style, defeating Serbia in four sets, 25–22, 18–25, 25–16, 25–20, on Sunday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City to close out Week 2 of the 2026 FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League.

The win gave the Americans a perfect 4-0 record in the pool and lifted them to solo second place in the overall standings with a 7–1 record, trailing only unbeaten Brazil (7–0). The result also allowed the World No. 7 squad to break a three-way tie at 6–1 with Japan and Poland.

USA showcased strong consistency throughout the match, with multiple players contributing on offense to keep Serbia under pressure. Four Americans finished in double figures, led by Avery Skinner’s 18 points (16 attacks, 1 block, 1 ace).

Captain and setter Jordyn Poulter directed the attack with 22 excellent sets and lauded the team’s strong showing after going undefeated in the week.

“I think we are very lucky to come out this week 4–0. We played really quality opponents, and next week, Week 3, will be just as challenging. And we are ready to battle,” Poulter said.

Logan Eggleston added 17 points (16 attacks, 1 block), while Jordan Thompson contributed 14 points (10 attacks, 2 blocks, 2 aces).

After splitting the first two sets, the United States took firm control in the third and maintained the momentum into the fourth. A strong start in the final set proved decisive, as Serbia committed too many errors. The Americans turned an 18–14 lead into a 25–20 closeout, capped by another Skinner kill.

For Serbia, Nina Ćajić led the scoring with 18 points, shining particularly in their second-set comeback and brief third-set resistance. Hena Kurtagic added 11 points, including key blocks that helped keep the match competitive at times.

Serbia fell to 2–6 and will look to rebound in Week 3, where home advantage could be vital in their quest to reach the Final Round.

The United States, carrying strong momentum, will open Week 3 against Thailand in Osaka, Japan.