So far, I think that the good surprise of the tournment has been South Korea. They didnt have a good VNL, even though it was expected because its NT seemed a hospital, like Brazil in WCH 18; KYK has been injured, new players coming back from injuries and the heartbreaking lost against Russia.
Actually, SK played really well even when KYK wasnt on the court. It is more than obvious that their defensa has improved a lot, which is a key factor for their game.
In the other hand, I think the disappointments have been 3 teams: NED, JPN and DOM. The Dutch team has been underperforming during almost all the summer. So, maybe it isnt a surprise their position in the ranking. However, since this tournment is very important in order to keep WR points in case they dont qualify for Tokyo, I expected a better game from them. I know they are missing Robin, but there were some matches it was just painful to watch. And finally, DOM. From being Panamerican Champions some months ago, to just fight for the 9th position and being in the bottom with Argentina, Kenya and Cameroon. The same script: just a wonderful match (as against Russia) and then a tragic one (being trashed 25-9 by USA). It is so good for them and for their confidence to beat NED, but we all knew this NED was already in KO phase. I really like Larysmer Martinez. She isnt Brenda, of course, but she hasnt been the weakest link of her team. I expected a better performance from a team whose core has been playing together since more than 10 years ago.