Vietnam defeats Egypt after penalty at U21 women's world championship

Despite the controversy, Vietnam defeated Egypt 3-1 in the 17th-24th classification round of the FIVB Volleyball Women's U21 World Championship, on Sunday afternoon.

After being handed 4 losses by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), Vietnam dropped from second place in Group A to the bottom, forcing them into the 17th-24th classification round. Their opponent was Egypt, who finished 5th in Group C. Despite their lower ranking, Egypt was considered a strong contender due to their height advantage and diverse attacking strategies.

While awaiting the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV)'s appeal, outside hitter Dang Thi Hong was ineligible to play and watched from the stands. However, Vietnam welcomed the return of middle blocker Nguyen Phuong Quynh, who was absent from their 3-1 victory against Puerto Rico.

Nguyen Phuong Quynh (21) spikes the ball to score for Vietnam against Egypt in the 17th-24th classification round at the FIVB Volleyball Women's U21 World Championship, Sunday afternoon. Photo: Volleyball World

Despite the ongoing controversy that shook the world volleyball scene, coach Nguyen Trong Linh's players remained undeterred, entering the court with strong determination. After initially trailing 5-1 in the first set, Vietnam improved with better serves and powerful attacks, gradually closing the gap and taking the lead at 11-8 and then 17-11. With strong performances from Quynh Huong and Thuy Linh, Vietnam secured the first set 25-16.

The second set proved more challenging. Egypt adapted their strategy, blocking effectively and leading 7-1, then 10-5. Coach Trong Linh called a timeout to regroup his players. Vietnam rallied, tying the score at 11-11. The two teams exchanged points until Egypt pulled ahead 21-19 and then 24-22. However, with excellent blocking from Quynh Huong and Phuong Quynh, along with two consecutive scores, Quynh Huong saved three set points, leading Vietnam to a 26-24 victory.

Quynh Huong and her teammates celebrate their 3-1 victory against Egypt in the 17th-24th classification round at the FIVB Volleyball Women's U21 World Championship, Sunday afternoon. Photo: Volleyball World

In the third set, both teams exchanged leads. The Vietnamese players showed signs of fatigue, and frequent substitutions disrupted their rhythm. Egypt capitalized on this, using their tall players to block effectively and winning the set 25-22.

Bui Thi Anh Thao shone in the fourth set with powerful spikes, leading Vietnam to a 25-20 victory. The 15-year-old outside hitter emerged as the top scorer of the match with 21 points, followed by Thuy Linh with 17 and Quynh Huong with 16.

Vietnam will compete for the 17th-20th place against the winner of the Chile-Mexico match on Tuesday.

Duc Dong

By VnExpress: https://vnexpress.net/viet-nam-ha-ai-cap-sau-an-phat-o-giai-u21-bong-chuyen-4926421.html