Achieving runner-up status in the world, the Japanese men's volleyball club made history

Osaka Bluteon had an impressive journey at the 2025 Men's Volleyball Club World Cup hosted in Brazil.

The Japanese men's volleyball team, Osaka Bluteon, concluded their memorable run at the 2025 Club World Championship as runners-up, marking a historic milestone for Japanese volleyball on the global stage.

In the final held at Mangueirinho Arena (Brazil), Osaka Bluteon faced Sir Sicoma Perugia – the reigning European champions and considered the strongest team in the tournament. Despite the opponent’s superior experience and squad depth, the Japanese side fought hard but ultimately lost 0-3 (20-25; 21-25; 27-29). Although they did not win a set, Osaka Bluteon posed significant challenges to Perugia, especially in the third set where both teams battled intensely until the final points.

The runner-up finish in Belém marks the first time ever that a Japanese club has appeared in the final of the men's club world championship. This was only Osaka Bluteon's second participation in this prestigious event, following their debut in 2013 where they placed fifth overall. The 2025 achievement demonstrates a remarkable advancement for the team from Japan and reflects the strong growth of Japanese men's volleyball in recent years.

Before Osaka Bluteon, only one other Asian club had reached the final of this prestigious tournament, Al-Rayyan (Qatar) in 2014, who lost to Belogorie Belgorod (Russia) also in Brazil.

In the final, Osaka Bluteon's star player Yuji Nishida remained the brightest offensive force. The opposite hitter scored 14 points, showcasing his leadership and consistent scoring ability against the opponent’s experienced blockers. Alongside Nishida, outside hitter Larry Evbade-Dan and Cuban spiker Miguel Angel Lopez each contributed 10 points, helping Osaka Bluteon maintain a competitive stance throughout the match.

Meanwhile, winning the championship in Brazil this year marked Sir Sicoma Perugia’s third Club World Cup title within the last four years (2022, 2023, and 2025). Setter Simone Giannelli continues to be the heart of Perugia, together with Wassim Ben Tara, securing this prestigious trophy for the Italian club.