Spain is currently ranked 32nd by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), 10 places below Vietnam. However, the European team boasts greater height, with several players between 1.8 and 1.9 meters tall, and employs a fast-paced, modern European playing style.

At the Dong Anh gymnasium in Hanoi on 17/8, Vietnam lost 22-25, 18-25, 20-25, and 24-26. While volleyball matches typically follow a best-of-five set format, the coaching staff agreed to a best-of-four format for this friendly match.

The Vietnam women's volleyball team lost to Spain 0-4 in a friendly match at Dong Anh gymnasium, Hanoi, on 17/8/2025. Photo: Hieu Luong

Both teams utilized all 14 players. However, Vietnam's performance was subpar, leading to disjointed play and numerous errors in stepping and attacking. Meanwhile, Spain maintained consistent play throughout and prevented the home team from taking the lead.

Spain's strong blocking also challenged Vietnam's top opposite hitter, Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen. Spain's De Paula, Varela, and Escamilla consistently scored with powerful hits that either went through or over the Vietnamese block.

Following the match, assistant coach Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hoa explained that the loss was not unexpected, as Vietnam's demanding season had taken a toll on the team's physical condition. This match served as a way to regain their rhythm and prepare for the 2025 World Championship.

"The opponent is very strong, with a fast-paced style of play," Hoa told VnExpress after the match. "The coaching staff anticipated this less-than-ideal performance and defeat."

Prior to these friendly matches, Vietnam participated in a series of tournaments, including the AVC Nations Cup, two legs of the SEA V-League, and the VTV Cup. Players also competed for their respective clubs. The frequency of competition, with tournaments every two weeks, has depleted the players' physical and mental strength. However, the coaching staff has a plan to address this.

According to Hoa, Vietnam needs to prioritize improving their first step – a persistent challenge for the team. "Spain demonstrated excellent ball control, from serving to attacking. This is a valuable learning opportunity for our team," the assistant coach added. "Everyone recognizes the need for improvement, and we hope the players will be more focused in the upcoming matches."

The Vietnam women's volleyball team lost to Spain 0-4 in a friendly match at Dong Anh gymnasium, Hanoi, on 17/8/2025. Photo: Hieu Luong

The Vietnam women's volleyball team lost to Spain 0-4 in a friendly match at Dong Anh gymnasium, Hanoi, on 17/8/2025. Photo: Hieu Luong

Vietnam has another friendly match scheduled against Kenya, an African team, on 19/8, also at the Dong Anh gymnasium. This match was originally scheduled for yesterday, 16/8, but was postponed due to Kenya's delayed flight. The organizers decided to move the Vietnam-Spain match forward.

Kenya is currently ranked 23rd in the world, one spot above Vietnam. However, they have participated in the World Championship seven times. Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet and his team acknowledge the skill gap between the two sides.

Following these matches, Vietnam will travel to Thailand for the 2025 World Championship, taking place from 22/8 to 7/9 in four cities. 32 teams will be divided into eight groups for a round-robin competition, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the round of 16.

This is Vietnam's first appearance at the World Championship. They are placed in Group G and will face Poland on 23/8, Germany on 25/8, and Kenya on 27/8.

Poland is currently ranked third in the world and has participated in the World Championship 11 times, achieving their best result as runners-up in 1952. Germany, ranked 11th globally, has participated 17 times, with their best finish being fourth place in 1974 and 1986. Kenya secured their eighth appearance by winning the African Championship in 2023.

"Our primary objective is to gain experience against strong opponents, adapt to their pace, and avoid significant point deficits," said assistant coach Ngoc Hoa. "The entire team is working towards our most important goal: the 33rd SEA Games."

Hieu Luong