🔥 What a match! The Chinese mainland squad overcame a shaky start to edge Mexico 3-1 in their Pool F opener at the FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It was their first Worlds clash since a 3-0 sweep back in 2006.
Mexico started strong, snagging the first set 25-22 after a powerful spike by Sofia Maldonado. It looked like an upset brewing as the underdogs brought extra fire on both ends of the court.
Coach Zhao Yong mixed things up in set two, sending in rising stars Wu Mengjie and Zhuang Yushan. The momentum swung back and forth, but Wu's killer spike and a crucial double block sealed a 26-24 win to level the match 1-1.
From there, the Chinese mainland side found their groove. In set three they piled on a rock-solid defense, racing to a 12-4 lead and cruising to a dominant 25-10 victory. Walls of blocks and quick transitions left Mexico scrambling.
Set four saw Zhuang shine brightest, racking up a match-high 23 points. Despite Mexico's hustle, they couldn't close the gap. A final out-of-bounds spike by Samantha Bricio handed the Chinese mainland a 25-18 win, sealing the 3-1 triumph. 💪
Up next, the Chinese mainland will face Colombia on Monday, while Mexico takes on the Dominican Republic. Stay tuned for more court drama! ✨
Reference(s):
China defeat Mexico 3-1 at FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship
cgtn.com
