Netherlands captain Manon Flier says her side leaves for Japan in confident mood

Rotterdam, Netherlands, October 19, 2010 – Netherlands captain Manon Flier believes her side can be a match for any team at the upcoming 2010 FIVB Women's World Championship.

The Netherlands are in a tough group, alongside 2009 FIVB World Grand Champions Cup winners Italy, 2009 FIVB World Grand Prix winners Brazil as well as Kenya, Puerto Rico and the Czech Republic.

However, Flier was in confident mood as she looked ahead to the tournament on Monday, 24 hours before her team's departure for Japan. She said: "We can give each team in the world difficulties when everything falls into place. That knowledge gives us a lot of confidence."

Netherlands coach Avital Selinger shared his captain's optimism. "I think the best is yet to come and that's a nice observation,” he said, adding he was pleased to see veteran Kim Staelens return after she gave birth two months ago. "Although I was not surprised by her quick return, I am very happy. It really adds something."

The World Championship runs from October 29-November 14.