The Japanese Federation announced the men's national team roster and two friendly matches against Bulgaria on September 2 and 3, 2025, at Ariake Arena, Tokyo. These will be some of the last tests before the start of the World Championship in the Philippines.
Roster
Position | Player |
---|---|
Setters | Eiro, Oya |
Opposites | Miyaura, Nishiyama |
Middle Blockers | Onodera, Nishimoto, Sato, Larry Evbade-Dan |
Outside Hitters | Ishikawa, Takahashi, Otsuka, Tomita, Kai |
Liberos | Ogawa, Yamamoto |

After the friendly matches, national coach Laurent Tillie will reduce the squad by one more player.
Friendly matches
Date
Opponent | Venue | Място |
---|---|---|
September 2, 2025 | Bulgaria | Ariake Arena, Tokyo |
September 3, 2025 | Bulgaria | Ariake Arena, Tokyo |
The control matches will give a clear idea of the team's form before the start of the World Cup. Supporters and specialists will observe an exciting preparation, and the choice of Ariake Arena \u2014 a modern and spacious venue \u2014 shows the interest in the Japanese team.
These matches are among the last official tests before the start of the championship, which kicks off in the Philippines on September 12, 2025. The matches in Tokyo provide an advantage for Bulgaria's adaptation, allowing them to test their level in an important international sparring partner environment.