DENTON, Texas, Oct. 3, 2003 – Ana Chagas scored a match-high 16 points as the Brazilian Women's Volleyball team defeated the United States, 3-1 (25-20, 25-12, 20-25, 25-22) in their third successive victory on their four-match tour of the USA in Texas on Friday.

"We did not fight tonight for some reason," said Team USA head coach Toshi Yoshida. "Playing our best is the only way to beat Brazil."

Erika Coimbra also added 15 points for Brazil while Keba Phipps and Tayyiba Haneef scored 15 points apiece to lead the United States, which dropped to 20-12 on the season.

"After a day of recovery time we were able to gain some mental and physical stability to take a game off Brazil," said Haneef. "With each game we get a little better. So we are looking forward to bringing more energy into Saturday's match."

The series concludes on Saturday in the city of Burleson, hometown of USA libero Stacy Sykora.

"It is going to be tough to beat Brazil, but I know we have it in us each day," said Team USA setter Lindsey Berg. "We need to continue to get better and work on USA Volleyball. We need to continue to push in practice and fight hard during the games. I know we will beat Brazil when it really counts."

Brazil won the first two matches of the series in impressive fashion both by a 3-0 scoreline.

"The game tonight was more difficult (than the previous two)," said Brazilian head coach Jose Guimaraes. "The USA defense and blocking worked better. The equilibrium was there all game long (for Brazil). The detailed plays made the result."