Tianjin Bohai Bank has etched its name in history, becoming the first Chinese team to reach the final of the Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) Women’s Club World Championship.
On Saturday in Hangzhou, Tianjin triumphed over Brazil’s Dentil Praia Clube with a 3-1 victory, marking a monumental achievement for Chinese volleyball on the global stage.
Entering the tournament as the third-place finisher from the previous edition, Tianjin carried renewed confidence. Despite earlier injury concerns for captain Li Yingying, a period of rest rejuvenated the star spiker. Her significant contributions were instrumental in Tianjin’s impressive five-game winning streak that concluded the regular season in the China Volleyball League.
While fatigue from their domestic campaign posed challenges, Tianjin’s experience fostered resilience and determination. Throughout the group stage of the Club World Championship, the team advanced without dropping a set. This flawless performance boosted the squad’s morale and reinforced the trust between the players and head coach Chen Fang.
In the semifinals against the tenacious Dentil Praia Clube, Tianjin’s keen focus on service receptions created scoring opportunities. Captain Li Yingying rose to the occasion, delivering a match-high 32 points, including 10 crucial points in the first set.
Although Tianjin’s energy waned in the third set—allowing their opponents to avoid a sweep—the Chinese club swiftly regained composure in the fourth. They denied Dentil Praia any chance of a comeback, ultimately securing the win with set scores of 25-23, 25-21, 24-26, 25-22.
This historic victory not only showcases the growing prowess of Chinese volleyball on the international stage but also inspires fans and aspiring athletes across Asia. Tianjin Bohai Bank now sets its sights on the championship match, poised to leave an indelible mark on the tournament.
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Tianjin becomes first Chinese team to reach FIVB women's club final
cgtn.com
