Overview

• The friendly used a special rule that added a fourth set, producing a 4–0 sweep.
• Starter Tomohiro Yamamoto said his feel is returning after resting following the domestic league and he welcomed the large crowd.
• Tatsunori Otsuka returned from right-elbow surgery in July, entered for the fourth set, and unloaded a string of sharp spikes.
• The event marked a notable spectator turnout at Ariake, the first national-team match there with fans since the Tokyo Olympics.
• Japan continues warm-ups, including another Bulgaria match on September 3, before the World Championship opens in Manila on September 12.