The opening set remained closely contested for much of the way, but South Korea proved more clinical when the decisive points arrived. Strong blocking and a varied attacking game helped the Koreans take the set 25-20, while Thanh Thuy was Vietnam’s standout performer with six attacking points.

Vietnam responded with determination in the second set. Trailing 4-9, coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet’s players patiently fought their way back, drawing level at 20-20 before completing the comeback with a 25-22 victory. Pham Quynh Huong, Thanh Thuy and Bich Thuy all made important contributions.

South Korea, however, quickly regained control in the third set. Vietnam continued to battle but could not maintain their momentum in the closing stages, eventually losing 21-25. Bich Thuy scored six points in the set, while Thanh Thuy added four.

In the fourth set, South Korea asserted their strength in both attack and defense, steadily building a comfortable advantage. Vietnam’s efforts were not enough to turn the contest around, with the Koreans closing out the set 25-17.

Vietnam ultimately lost 1-3, with the match ending 20-25, 25-22, 21-25, 17-25.

Despite the defeat, the performance from Thanh Thuy and her teammates offered encouraging signs as Vietnam test themselves against some of Asia’s leading teams. 

Thien Binh