Having already secured a spot in the round of 16 after their 3-1 loss to Argentina, Vietnam finished second in Pool A with 9 points. Coach Nguyen Trong Linh opted to rest key players like Dang Thi Hong, Nguyen Phuong Quynh, and Bich Hue.

Puerto Rico, ranked among the top 15 volleyball teams globally, boasts strong technical skills and a physically imposing team. With a chance to advance if they won 3-0 or 3-1 against Vietnam, the North American team fielded their strongest lineup.

Vietnamese players celebrate their 3-1 victory over Puerto Rico on Tuesday afternoon in Surabaya, Indonesia. Photo: FIVB

Vietnamese players celebrate their 3-1 victory over Puerto Rico on Tuesday afternoon in Surabaya, Indonesia. Photo: FIVB

Despite missing key attackers, the young Vietnamese team performed admirably. Excellent first-ball contact provided setter Nhu Anh with multiple options to distribute the ball, allowing Quynh Huong and Anh Thao to score freely. Vietnam consistently led 7-4, 14-11, and 20-13 before winning the first set 25-17.

With only three substitutes, Coach Trong Linh had limited choices, rotating all available players to maintain momentum. Vietnam initially led in the second set. However, after bringing in taller players to strengthen their blocking, Puerto Rico gained a 21-16 lead.

Just as victory seemed to favor the North American team, Vietnam mounted a remarkable comeback. With strong defense, effective blocking, and precise attacks, they scored 9 consecutive points to win the second set 25-21.

After two winning sets, Vietnam's first-ball contact began to falter, allowing Puerto Rico to lead 9-6, 12-9, and 15-10 in the third set. Coach Trong Linh quickly called a timeout to reassure his players and disrupt Puerto Rico's momentum.

Upon returning, Vietnam scored three consecutive points, narrowing the gap to 13-15 and then tying the score at 17-17. They then surged ahead to 23-21, but errors allowed Puerto Rico to win the set 25-23.

Minimizing errors in the fourth set, Vietnam maintained a narrow lead. Puerto Rico managed to tie the score at 14-14 and 22-22, then took a 23-22 lead. Undeterred, Vietnam regained their composure, scoring three consecutive points to clinch the match with a powerful spike by Quynh Huong.

Bui Thi Anh Thao led the scoring with 18 points, followed by Quynh Huong with 16.

Vietnam has become a surprising contender in the FIVB Volleyball Women's U21 World Championship in their debut appearance. Photo: FIVB

Vietnam has become a surprising contender in the FIVB Volleyball Women's U21 World Championship in their debut appearance. Photo: FIVB

The U21 World Championship, held in Surabaya, Indonesia, from 7/8 to 17/8, features 24 teams. Vietnam impressed in the group stage with 3-0 victories over hosts Indonesia, 3-1 wins over Serbia, Canada, and Puerto Rico, accumulating 12 points. Their only loss was to Argentina, placing them second in their pool.

Vietnam will play in the round of 16 tomorrow. Their opponent is yet to be determined.

Duc Dong