Karasuno recognises that Kyōtani is a double-edged sword in the match: he makes just as many mistakes as he does attacks, and if Aoba Jōsai does not use him successfully, his presence in the game can backfire their intentions to increase their offensive power. Sugawara is subbed into the game to help Karasuno gain more points, but is soon switched back out when the formation changes. Coach Ukai considers bringing Yamaguchi in as a pinch server to win the second set from Aoba Jōsai.