Men's Volleyball: US Defeats France in 4 Sets

The U.S. was coming off a big win over Brazil, then won three sets over France by the score 25-22

Seemingly down and out in these Olympics only a few days ago, the U.S. men's volleyball team is suddenly right back in the mix of the Rio de Janeiro Games.

Fresh off Thursday night's stunning four-set victory against host Brazil, the Americans rallied from way down in the first set Saturday to beat France 25-22, 25-22, 24-25, 25-22 and improve their position in Pool A.

Next up is Mexico on Monday in the final preliminary match before the knockout quarterfinals.

After two forgettable preliminary matches and facing the real possibility of Olympic elimination, Matt Anderson and the Americans stunned Brazil in four sets Thursday night to deny the previously unbeaten host nation a quarterfinal berth.

Anderson led the charge for a roster packed with Olympic first-timers, but this inspired performance took every player and every play.

"We play our best volleyball when our backs are against the wall," U.S. captain David Lee said. "We proved it again tonight. ... This was probably the hardest we've fought, I think our team has ever fought. That's some of the best defense I've ever seen."

Anderson brought it with his jump serve, his big hitting and reliable passing in a 25-20, 25-23, 20-25, 25-20 victory that left the raucous, flag-waving pro-Brazil crowd at Maracanazinho arena in utter disbelief. 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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