Vietnam, Kazakhstan Move Closer to Women’s Cup Semifinal Spots

Vietnam and Kazakhstan bolstered their chances of reaching the semifinals after recording separate victories to remain unbeaten in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup on Monday at the Candon City Arena.

Both teams improved to 3-0 in Pool B and now stand one win away from securing berths in the knockout stage.

Defending champion Vietnam was pushed to the brink by Indonesia before emerging victorious in a thrilling five-set contest, 18-25, 25-22, 25-18, 19-25, 15-13. Despite surrendering the first set and facing relentless pressure throughout the match, Vietnam relied on its experience and composure to escape with the win.

Kazakhstan likewise recovered from a slow start, rallying past Iran in four sets, 13-25, 25-20, 25-14, 25-19, to maintain its flawless record.

Vietnam’s attack was spearheaded by Trần Thị Thanh Thúy and Thi Như Quỳnh Vi, who each scored 22 points, while Nhu Anh Le added 15. Indonesia received a game-high 26 points from Ersandrina Devega but came up short in the deciding frame.

For Kazakhstan, Kristina Belova delivered 23 points highlighted by strong net play and crucial blocks. Tatyana Yatskiv and Yuliya Fomenko chipped in 13 and 10 points, respectively, to help seal the victory.

Iran, meanwhile, was led by Fatemeh Khalili’s 23-point effort but slipped further down the Pool B standings.

Elsewhere in Pool B, Hong Kong notched its first victory of the tournament with a commanding straight-set win over Lebanon, 25-20, 25-8, 25-13.

Tang Sumyuen paced Hong Kong with 14 points, while Shum Lam contributed 12. Lebanon remained winless at 0-2 despite a 10-point performance from Shantalle Marie Demirjian.

In Pool A, Chinese Taipei secured its second straight win by defeating Australia in four sets, 25-20, 17-25, 25-22, 25-19, earning a share of the group lead alongside South Korea.

Chang Yichi led the charge with 21 points for Chinese Taipei, while Tsai Yuchun and Yeh Yuwen added 13 and 10 points, respectively. Australia dropped to 1-1 despite 11-point performances from Chelsea Cocks and Lara Maric.