It was Hisamitsu Springs' first ever win in the tournament
Zurich, Switzerland May 6, 2015 – Hisamitsu Springs star Brankica Mihajlovic couldn’t hide her happiness after she was talismanic in her side’s shock win over Eczacibasi VitrA in the opening match of the FIVB Volleyball Women’s Club World Championship 2015 in Zurich on Wednesday.
Brankica Mihajlovic, Hisamitsu Springs: "I find no words to describe our incredible victory today. I’m so happy to be part of such a great team and to win against one of the strongest teams in European volleyball.
"We had to change our game plan since it’s really different to play against European club teams, but eventually our team spirit made the difference.”
Jordan Larson-Burbach, Eczacibasi Vitra: “They played really well and we lost our gas in the third set. It’s disappointing but props to them.
"Japanese sides always play a very good mental and defensive game. We are still in this and now have to play a good game against the Russians. We just need to keep working.”
Nakada Kumi, Hisamitsu coach : “We are incredibly happy to beat the European champions. They are very good. We had to defend well.
"They have a very tall side so you can’t volley over them, you have to volley off their arms at angles. We played a good mental game.
“We defeated one of the strongest teams in the world, I think that really helps our self-esteem. We prepared the whole season for these important games here at the Club World Championship.
"Nevertheless, I’m sure that my players aren’t going to rest on their laurels. We are going to give our very best and play as team. That’s our Japanese mentality.”