The tournament’s unexpected phenomenon

In Group A of the 2025 U21 World Volleyball Championship, Vietnam’s U21 women’s team was not expected to perform strongly. Apart from Indonesia, their opponents were highly ranked teams, including Argentina, Serbia, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

However, Lan Vy and her teammates continually defied expectations. They stunned the host nation with a 3-0 victory in the opening match, shocked the world’s 8th-ranked team Serbia, then defeated 21st-ranked Canada and 15th-ranked Puerto Rico, losing only to 7th-ranked Argentina in the group stage.

These victories were not a stroke of luck. Coach Nguyen Trong Linh’s squad came well-prepared. The young players had recently competed in the National U23 Championship and the 2025 VTV Cup. The Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV) did not impose performance targets, only encouraging the athletes to try their best and learn from the competition.

This stress-free approach, combined with a “know your strengths and weaknesses” strategy, allowed Vietnam’s U21 team to deliver surprise after surprise. Even after being handed four match losses and losing a player due to a controversial FIVB penalty, they secured two more wins over strong teams Egypt and the Dominican Republic, only falling to Chile in the 17th-20th placement match.

Despite entering the competition primarily to gain experience, Vietnam’s U21 women became the tournament’s sensation. Had it not been for the unexpected FIVB sanctions (for reasons still unknown), the team could have made the top 16 and potentially gone further.

Disappointment and hope

Vietnam ended their run with a 3-0 win over the Dominican Republic. Without the FIVB’s punishment, Coach Trong Linh’s team would have recorded 6 wins and just 2 losses.

It’s disappointing that the team, which had earned a historic ticket to the round of 16, missed the chance to face world-class opponents due to off-court issues.

Beyond disappointment, the team was deeply affected by the careless administrative error labeled a “typo” by the organizers. It’s hard to believe such a mistake occurred at a prestigious global event.

Yet, the coaching staff and players encouraged one another to perform with the highest commitment, representing their nation with pride. Coach Trong Linh emphasized that every match, regardless of the ranking bracket, was treated as a final – an opportunity for growth and maturity.

Technically, Vietnam’s U21 team grew more flexible and effective as the tournament progressed. Outside hitter Dang Thi Hong, despite standing only 1.72 meters tall, was a consistent and dangerous attacker, topping the scoring chart after four matches.

Even after the 19-year-old star was banned from competing, the team maintained its offensive strength with standout performances from Bich Hue and Anh Thao. Middle blocker Le Thuy Linh also shone in several matches, while 17-year-old Quynh Huong, originally tasked with defensive duties, became the top scorer against Chile and the Dominican Republic. Setter Khanh Huyen and libero Kieu Vy also delivered strong performances.

Though there remain issues in first-touch reception and stamina, Vietnam’s U21 squad showed remarkable balance across positions, with a consistent skill level between starters and substitutes.

This generation represents the future of Vietnam’s national team. Based on their performance, players like Ha Kieu Vy and her teammates show great potential. If they continue to receive proper training and development, the future looks bright.

Hopefully, after this tournament, both the Vietnam Volleyball Federation and the U21 team can draw valuable lessons, avoid repeat mistakes, and commit to stronger investments in the nation’s youth volleyball programs.

Dai Nam