Nanjing, China — In a thrilling display of skill and resilience, host nation China outclassed Serbia 3-0 on Saturday in the FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League, marking a significant turning point in their current season campaign.
The victory in Nanjing brings China's overall record to 2-1, following a challenging start to the tournament that included a 3-0 loss to the Czech Republic and a narrow 3-2 win over Thailand earlier this week.
A Dominant Performance
China claimed victory in three straight sets, all ending with a consistent score of 25-21. The team's success was fueled by standout performances from Zhuang Yushan and Tang Xin, who each contributed 14 points to the effort.
The match began as a tight contest. After trailing 8-3 in the first set, the Chinese squad mounted a steady comeback to tie the game at 13-13. Though Serbia momentarily regained the lead at 18-15, China executed a spectacular 10-3 run to clinch the opening set.
The momentum carried into the second set, where China quickly established a 7-4 lead, bolstered by consecutive kills from Gong Xiangyu. Serbia fought back to force a 16-16 tie and briefly led 20-19, but a series of attacks from Wang and a well-timed kill by Zhuang pushed China ahead to 23-20. A powerful smash from Wang and a critical block by Zhang Zixuan eventually sealed the set 25-21.
The final set followed a similar pattern. Despite Serbia taking an early 13-10 lead, the Chinese athletes responded with four consecutive points to take the edge 14-13. They maintained their composure to close the set 25-21, completing the 3-0 sweep.
This win underscores China's growing momentum in the tournament and their ability to perform under pressure in front of a home crowd, positioning them as a formidable force in this year's Nations League.
Reference(s):
China beats Serbia for second win in Women's Volleyball Nations League
cgtn.com
