KATOWICE, Poland — Saskatoon’s Gavin Schmitt had 18 points in a losing cause as top-ranked Brazil beat Canada 3-0 (-25-19, 25-23, 29-27) at the world men’s vollebyall championship Saturday.
Brazil qualified for third-round play with the win, improving to 6-0 in Pool F and 8-0 overall. It also earned a club record-tying 12th straight win at the world championships, which is well short of the all-time mark of 29 registered by the former Soviet Union (1974-1986).
Canada dropped 4-2 in the pool but has won six of its eight total games thus far.
"Brazil had another excellent match, they played the way we expected them to play with a very high technical level and skill," said Canadian coach Glenn Hoag. "We scuttled a couple of easy plays, so we still have a lot of room for improvement.
"Playing these matches really helps us grow and helps the guys understand what’s needed to be a better team."
The Canadians don’t have time to dwell upon the loss as they face Germany on Sunday.
"Germany has good organization, they run a basic offence, but they seem to be consistent in what they do," Hoag said. "We’re ready and we’ll try to play our best game."