Italy, despite injured captain, tops US in men’s volleyball (Yahoo Sports)

One by one, as best they could, Emanuele Birarelli’s teammates made their way over to him for a hug or handshake. Whatever happens, Italy believes in its deep bench. The Americans – ranked fifth in the world with eight first-time Olympians – had to contend with a raucous crowd chanting ”Italy!” They responded from a startling sweep by Canada in their Olympic opener two days earlier with a far more steady performance and improved serving, but it wasn’t enough against powerful Italy.