Neji and Hinata (volume)

is volume 9 of the Naruto manga.

Chapters

 * 073.
 * 074.
 * 075.
 * 076.
 * 077.
 * 078.
 * 079.
 * 080.
 * 081.

Synopsis
Before she can be forced to surrender, Sakura is able to expel Ino from her mind. With both tired out from the ordeal, the match culminates in a double knock out, after which the two begin to rekindle their friendship. Naruto proves more fortunate in his own match, outsmarting his opponent to the surprise of the onlookers. Naruto's success motivates Team 8 member Hinata Hyuga to do her best in the match against her cousin, Neji Hyuga. Neji, a stronger fighter who hates Hinata's family, shows her no mercy during their fight. The match concludes with Hinata being left in critical condition and Neji showing no remorse for his treatment of one of his relatives. Naruto, enraged by this, swears upon Hinata's spilled blood that he will defeat Neji in the final matches.