Tianjin Bohai Bank made history on Saturday, becoming the first Chinese team to reach the final of the Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) Women’s Club World Championship.
In a thrilling semifinal match held in Hangzhou, Tianjin triumphed over Brazil’s Dentil Praia Clube with a 3-1 victory. The home crowd erupted as the final point was scored, sealing the scores at 25-23, 25-21, 24-26, 25-22.
Entering the tournament as the third-place finisher from the previous edition, Tianjin Bohai Bank had a point to prove. The team’s journey was bolstered by the return of captain Li Yingying, who had faced injury concerns earlier in the season. After a period of rest, Li returned to the court with renewed vigor, leading her team with a match-high 32 points, including an impressive 10 points in the first set alone.
“It’s an incredible feeling to make it to the final,” Li shared after the match. “Our team has worked tirelessly, and overcoming the challenges we’ve faced makes this achievement even more rewarding.”
Tianjin’s path to the final was marked by resilience and determination. Despite fatigue from their domestic campaign, where they secured a five-game winning streak to conclude the regular season in the China Volleyball League, the team showed no signs of slowing down. Throughout the group stage of the Club World Championship, they advanced without dropping a single set, a testament to their cohesive teamwork and the strategic guidance of coach Chen Fang.
The semifinal against Dentil Praia was a test of both skill and endurance. Tianjin’s focus on service receptions and sharp attacks created scoring opportunities that Dentil Praia struggled to counter. Even as their energy waned in the third set, allowing the Brazilian team to avoid a sweep, Tianjin quickly regrouped in the fourth set to close out the match.
Coach Chen Fang praised her team’s performance: “The players showed tremendous heart today. They trusted each other and executed our game plan perfectly. Making it to the final is a proud moment for us and for Chinese volleyball.”
Tianjin Bohai Bank’s historic achievement not only marks a milestone for the club but also signifies a momentous occasion for Chinese volleyball on the international stage. As they prepare for the final, the team’s spirits are high, and the nation watches with anticipation.
The final match will be a culmination of Tianjin’s hard work and a chance to etch their names further into volleyball history. Regardless of the outcome, their journey has already inspired fans and future athletes across China and beyond.
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Tianjin becomes first Chinese team to reach FIVB women's club final
cgtn.com
