Statistics from the organizers show Hong has scored 62 points, surpassing many renowned athletes from Asia and beyond. Her tally includes 49 points from attacks, 8 from blocks, and 5 from service aces. She is also tied for second in best attacking performance with a 41.53% success rate, ranked seventh in blocking, and fourth in serving  -  highlighting her all-around ability at just 19 years old.

In the most recent match against U21 Canada, Hong scored 26 points, powering Vietnam to a third consecutive victory and securing the team’s first-ever spot in the tournament’s round of 16.

Teammate Ngo Thi Bich Hue is also among the tournament’s top scorers, with 40 points to rank eighth. Setter Lai Khanh Huyen set a record with 13 consecutive service points against Canada and currently ranks fifth in “Best Setter” with 86 successful assists. Libero Ha Kieu Vy is ranked seventh in overall defense and eighth in serve reception.

With three wins, nine points, and a place among the top four in Group A, Vietnam has clinched its round-of-16 berth with two matches to spare  -  against Argentina on August 11 and Puerto Rico on August 13  -  which will decide the group’s top spot.

Coach Dinh Trong Linh’s squad is now tipped to deliver more surprises on the world stage.

Dai Nam