Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province — Italian volleyball powerhouse Imoco Volley Conegliano showcased their dominance by clinching the FIVB Club World Championship title, defeating Tianjin Bohai Bank in straight sets (25-21, 25-15, 25-20). This victory marks Conegliano’s third world title in just four appearances at the prestigious tournament.
The final, held in the vibrant city of Hangzhou on the Chinese mainland, saw Tianjin Bohai Bank make a strong start, leading midway through the first set. However, Conegliano’s experience and agility turned the tide, capturing the set 25-21. The second set witnessed Conegliano’s formidable jump serves overwhelming Tianjin’s reception, resulting in a swift 25-15 win.
Despite Tianjin’s valiant efforts in the third set, Conegliano maintained their momentum, sealing the championship with a 25-20 victory. Swedish star Isabelle Haak, Conegliano’s opposite hitter, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, leading a stellar lineup in the symbolic “Dream Team” announced during the awarding ceremony.
Chinese star spiker Zhu Ting and Tianjin’s captain Li Yingying, who contributed 12 points in the final, were both honored as “Best Outside Hitters.” Reflecting on the match, Zhu Ting expressed pride in the team’s performance, saying, “No matter which side wins, this final was a fantastic match. Everyone did a great job. I’m happy that our team has improved so much and played impressively. Although the result determined the champions, I think everyone is a winner.”
This runner-up finish marks the best performance by a Chinese team in the history of the Club World Championship, signaling a promising future for Chinese volleyball on the international stage.
