Canada upsets Italy in men's volleyball to advance to quarterfinals at Rio 2016 Olympics

Canada’s men’s volleyball team has secured a spot in the quarterfinals after upsetting Italy today.

Italy came into the game leading Pool A with a 4-0 record, while Canada’s 2-2 record put them in a four-way tie with France, Brazil, and the USA.

#CAN stuns #ITA, wins 3-1 and advances to quarter-finals in #Volleyball https://t.co/6fDrQEMr9N

— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) August 16, 2016

Canada came out strong and never really took their foot off the gas. After narrowly taking the opening set 25-23, Canada came out steaming in the second to take the set, 25-17.

Canada had some strong digs on their end, but it was the offense that really shined in this one. It was a statement game for Gavin Schmitt, who was smashing the ball down with authority all night long.

#CAN Gavin Schmitt is an animal https://t.co/uTFdNDNgXv

— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) August 16, 2016

There was a bit of a scare after Italy came out and took the third set 25-16, but Canada came out strong to take the fourth set, 25-21, and win the match 3-1.

With the win, Canada is guaranteed to advance to the quarterfinals, which begin on Wednesday.