Tianjin Bohai Bank has etched its name in history as the first Chinese team to reach the final of the Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) Women’s Club World Championship. The team secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over Brazil’s Dentil Praia Clube in Hangzhou on Saturday.
Entering the tournament as the third-place finisher from the previous edition, Tianjin Bohai Bank carried renewed confidence. Despite earlier injury concerns for captain Li Yingying, a period of rest allowed the star spiker to return to form. Her significant contributions helped Tianjin secure an impressive five-game winning streak to conclude the regular season in the China Volleyball League.
While fatigue from the domestic campaign was a challenge, Tianjin’s experience fostered resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Throughout the group stage of the Club World Championship, the team advanced without dropping a set, greatly boosting morale and strengthening 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 ample scoring opportunities. Captain Li Yingying rose to the occasion, scoring 10 of her match-high 32 points in the first set alone.
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. Denying Dentil Praia any chance for a comeback, Tianjin prevailed with set scores of 25-23, 25-21, 24-26, and 25-22, securing their spot in the final.
“It’s an incredible feeling to make history for Chinese volleyball,” Li Yingying said after the match. “Our team showed great spirit and teamwork. We’re excited to compete in the final and will give it our all.”
Tianjin Bohai Bank’s historic achievement not only marks a significant milestone for the club but also elevates the status of Chinese women’s volleyball on the global stage. Fans eagerly await the final, where Tianjin will strive to bring home the prestigious title.
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Tianjin becomes first Chinese team to reach FIVB women's club final
cgtn.com
