In an emotional evening at Vinh Phuc provincial stadium, the Vietnam women’s national volleyball team delivered one of their most spirited and inspiring performances of 2025.

Facing a 0–2 deficit against Russian champions Korabelka, it seemed the outcome was sealed. But the Vietnamese team fought back with determination, leveling the match 2–2 before narrowly losing the decisive set. The 2–3 defeat was regrettable, but the team’s display reflected significant growth in both tactics and resilience under pressure.

Korabelka, champions of the 2024 VTV Cup, fielded a physically imposing and technically sound lineup. They dominated the first two sets with powerful serves and strong central attacks. In contrast, the Vietnamese side started sluggishly, struggling with first-ball reception and showing a lack of coordination.

From the third set onward, the tide turned. Vietnam increased the tempo and played more boldly, fully utilizing the offensive power of their star hitters Thanh Thuy and Bich Tuyen. These two created a formidable left-right attacking tandem. Early in the set, Vietnam surged ahead 5–2 with sharp serves and effective setting from Lam Oanh.

Bich Tuyen's cross-court spikes proved especially lethal, repeatedly breaking through the Russian block and throwing Korabelka off balance. Libero Nguyen Khanh Dang also stood out with stellar defensive efforts, stabilizing the backline. Thanh Thuy clinched the set with a crucial point at 25–23, narrowing the match to 1–2 and reviving hopes of a comeback.

In the fourth set, Vietnam showcased excellent teamwork and precision, capitalizing on counter-attacks to build a 16–9 lead before closing the set 25–21, leveling the score 2–2 amid roaring support from the crowd.

Entering the decisive fifth set, Vietnam seemed to have the momentum as their energy surged and Korabelka appeared rattled by the pace. However, the Russian side drew on their experience and physical strength just when it mattered most. They slowed the tempo, delivered deeper serves, and capitalized on net play. Precise finishing and tactical awareness exposed gaps in Vietnam’s raised defense line.

Despite tremendous effort, Vietnam couldn’t reverse the momentum. Bich Tuyen’s spikes lost some sting due to fatigue, while Korabelka’s cohesion tightened. The Russian team won the set and match 3–2, successfully defending their VTV Ferroli Cup 2025 title.

Unlike last year’s 0–3 loss, this narrow defeat left fans proud of the team’s growth and fighting spirit. Over more than two hours of play, the red-shirted players demonstrated tangible improvement in composure, tactics, and mental toughness against a formidable opponent.

This could prove a necessary setback - a stepping stone toward greater achievements. With the 2025 SEA Games and other international tournaments ahead, if Vietnam maintains this form and enhances their synergy, surprises may await.

PV