Italy held its composure in the crunch to survive a feisty Canada side, 25-14, 23-25, 25-20, 23-25, 15-9, on Thursday, July 6, in Week 3 of the Volleyball Nations League at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Three Italian defenders try to block Canada's Ryan Sclater during their VNL game Thursday. (Ali Vicoy)

It was the second straight victory for the Italians in this crucial phase, having also endured a morale-boosting four-set triumph over powerhouse Brazil two days back.

The win hiked Italy’s win-loss tally to 7-3, tightening its grip of the third and fourth spots it shared with Brazil.

Alessandro Michieletto fueled Italy anew with his hard-hitting spikes, pumping in 18 points, while Gianluca Galasi and Yuri Romano also made their presence felt with 17 points apiece including combined 27 kills.

“It was a very long, very hard match. It wasn’t an easy game for us, but what is important is the victory,” said Michieletto, who highlighted his performance with 14 attacks and three blocks.

After dropping the crucial fourth set, Italy quickly went back into business and dictated the tempo in the fifth with a 7-2 start and never looked back.

Roberto Russo was also instrumental with Italy’s triumph, finishing with 11 points, while Daniele Lavia and captain Simone Giannelli conspired for 17 points.

Canada absorbed its second straight defeat in Manila to plummet at 2-8 for 13^th place, despite matching Italy’s offensive energy.

Ryan Sclater and Stephen Maar actually carried the Canadians throughout with 22 and 18 points, while Nicholas Hoag had 14 points including crucial attacks in the fifth frame, but Italy proved to be a tough nut to crack.

The Italians actually overpowered the Canadians on attacks, 65-56, and banked on their 12 blocks and eight service aces.